As far as days in the wine calendar go, Beaujolais Nouveau is up there with the biggest. Celebrated on the third Thursday of November, it marks the day that that the region of Beaujolais in the east of France releases its new harvest of Gamay wine, 65 million bottles of which will be consumed around the world over the course of the year.
Luckily, loads of excellent Manchester wine spots are holding events to celebrate the fruity stuff, and here we’ve rounded up the best.
Beaujolais Nouveau Trail
In celebration of Beaujolais Nouveau Day – which always takes place on the third Thursday of November – wine lovers are invited to take part in a playful, flavour-packed journey across four of Manchester’s most iconic venues. Inspired by the legendary Beaujolais Run, which began in 1970 as a race to bring the first bottles of the new vintage from France to the UK, the route includes a stops at TNQ Restaurant & Bar, The Bay Horse Tavern and The Social with accompanying canapés, and a special cocktail at Science and Industry.
Beaujolais Nouveau at Winsome
Winsome is celebrating the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau with ‘Le Grand Anglais avec Beaujolais’ – a full English mixed grill for two served with a bottle of this year’s first release. A limited three-day special that pairs French flair with proper British indulgence.
Beaujolais Nouveau at Isca
Levenshulme’s natural wine and organic food spot Isca is, as you’d expect, celebrating Beaujolais Nouveau day. They’ll be pouring Nouveau and non-Nouveau wine from several producers all day long, and serving a special menu inspired by the region from 6pm. You can also purchase a bottle of Beaujolais Nouveau in advance via the Isca website, or in person on the day itself.
Beaujolais Nouveau at Cellar Door
Prestwich newcomer Cellar Door is getting in on the Beaujolais Nouveau action, with a pretty simple premise: they’ll open as many bottles as you can get through, with glasses priced from £5. There’s no need to book, just walk in. With Chin Chin and Whole Bunch Wines on the same stretch of Bury New Road, we smell a wine crawl in the making…
Beaujolais Nouveau at Chin Chin
The third Thursday of November marks Beaujolais Nouveau Day and at Chin Chin they’re going to celebrate like they’re in Swansea! (IYKYK). The night will feature the freshest Gamay from producers Jean-Claude Lapalu and Chateau Cambon, as well as hot dogs courtesy of Grandad’s Sausages. There’ll be fun, frivolity and French tunes playing as they sip the night away. Walk ins welcome, but reservation via hello@chinchinwinebar.co.uk recommended.
Beaujolais Nouveau at Ad Hoc
Ad Hoc join in the celebrations of the first drops of the Beaujolais Nouveau harvest in 2025. Beaujolais Nouveau is a fun and fruity vin de primeur, fermented just a few weeks before being released for sale on the third Thursday of November. Winemakers famously race to get the first bottles to tables across the globe. Head down on Thursday 20 November where they will be pouring from midday until late.
Beaujolais Nouveau at The Beeswing
Celebrate Beaujolais Nouveau as The Beeswing goes French. Try the first wine from this year’s harvest, and delicious French inspired food, with a French DJ friend bringing some Parisian joie de vivre. Join us for a special French menu and the freshest wine of the year. Tickets include a glass of the Beaujolais Nouveau and a French platter – cheese, paté, cornichons, etc. Walk-ins are also welcome.
Beaujolais Nouveau at Flawd
On Thursday 20th November, Flawd are celebrating the new vintage from winemakers Elisa Guerin and Maude Rochette. They’ll also be taking the opportunity to pour a variety of exciting Gamay from Beaujolais and beyond. They’re open from 4pm, with limited supplies of the Nouveau. Simply book a table or walk in.
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