Beaujolais Nouveau Day is marked in France on the third Thursday in November (Nov. 21) with fireworks, music, and festivals. Under French law, the wine is released at 12:01 a.m., just weeks after the wine’s grapes have been harvested. Parties are held throughout the country and further afield to celebrate this first wine of the season.

Beaujolais Nouveau is meant to be drunk young. Most vintages should be consumed by the following May after its release. However, in excellent vintages (such as the 2000) the wine can live much longer and can be enjoyed until the next harvest rolls around.

The region of Beaujolais is known for its fabulous food. The famed Paul Bocuse restaurant is just minutes from the heart of Beaujolais, as is Georges Blanc’s. These great restaurants have plenty of Beaujolais Nouveau on their wine lists. The wine goes well with either high cuisine or Friday night’s pizza.

An annual favorite, these French first harvest varietals are perfect for holiday parties or Thanksgiving feasts:

Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau: Vibrant red fruits flavors of strawberries and currants show on the palate with an intense perfume that make this wine a perfect accompaniment for cheese, charcuterie, and traditional holiday fare. Serve slightly chilled.

La Perliere Beaujolais Villages: On the nose, one gets notes of raspberry and cherry. On the palate, flavors of smoke, mineral, and strawberry are present with soft tannins. This is a medium-bodied wine with a short, peppery finish.

Grab a bottle and see what all the hubbub is about for yourself. Locally, you can find these limited edition, celebrated wines at larger, independently owned wine shops, like Wyatt’s Wet Goods, that offer you a superior selection from around the globe and an experienced staff that will help you find the perfect bottle for every occasion.