The French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF), knows how to produce wonderful events and the 2010 annual Beaujolais Nouveau Fête was no exception.
Thirsty New Yorkers and at least one Beaujolais fan from New Jersey, me, enjoyed the opportunity to be among the first to taste the 2010 Beaujolais vintage, another great year, and relished an exquisite offering of French cheeses, Pate, French music, entertainment, and joie.
Beaujolais Nouveau has a sweet place in my heart from romantic November getaways to Montreal back in the 80's where I first tasted this wine. Those little trips to "France" formed the foundation for a long loving marriage that I enjoy today. Over the years I lost my taste for this wine (fortunately not my wife), but the 2009 vintage was very good and my interest renewed. Tonight I tasted three exceptional wines of the 2010 vintage. They are worth exploring.
The event was held in the FIAF Gallery and Tinker Auditorium which was alive with excitement as we all drank these delicious young wines from the renowned vineyards of Laboure-Roi, Georges Duboef and Joseph Droughin, read more of the wine further on.
The wine was not the only pleasure of the evening. An exceptional array of French cheese was shared by Lactalis Dell and delicious Pate by our own NY Les Trois Petifs Cochons and bread by Bridor France.
We also celebrated the induction of new honorary members into the Ordre des Compagnons du Beaujolais at the event. The Ordre uses a special ceremony complete with traditional “Beaujolais” dress to induct distinguished individuals who share an appreciation for the joys of the vine.
The beautiful and popular French singer Josephine Ancelle serenaded the crowd with la chanson française and the very talented and innovative Harlan Muir performed his enchanting music on accordion.
They enlivened the evening and gave us the feeling that we all had somehow been suddenly transported to Paris.
French culture has such richness, depth and beauty.
The wines included three exceptional examples of the 2010 vintage. They are very inexpensive and certainly worth trying.
Labouré-Roi Beaujolais Nouveau 2010
100% Gamay
The wine has a rich bouquet of perfumed fresh, fruity red berry aromas that continue on the tongue with pepper and spice it is well balanced but very lively with complex red fruit and silky tannins. Serve slightly cool. Selling for $7-9.
George Duboef, the veritable king of Beaujolais Nouveau, poured their 2010 offering which they say is "a youthful wine with a fresh vibe. It is an explosion of flavor on the palate with bright red fruits and rich, floral aromas. It is sure to be a crowd pleaser!" I found it to have deeper flavors that the Labouré-Roi and less excitement on the nose. A delicious wine nonetheless. I do love the colorful labels. Will sell for $7-8. Many people prefer his higher level Beaujolais-Villages Nouveau
Lastly was a wonderful wine by Maison Joseph Droughin. One of the most highly regarded Burgundy wine producers. This was without a doubt the most well made of the three. More subtle in nose and flavor but airily delicious. It is described by Frederic Drouhin as having an appealing red-blue color, a nose evoking red currant and cherry, and refreshing acidity. The label of this wine was based on a watercolor by Frederic Drouhin's talented 12-year old daughter Romane. As i would expect this wine priced a little higher at $12-$14.
If you are not familiar with Beaujolais read this article from Snooth Wine 101- Beaujolais by Gregory Dal Piaz.
It was exciting to be back at FIAF. I was last there to take French lessons before our honeymoon trip to France many years ago. We are looking forward to attending other events there and take in a few movies and complete the date with a trip to La Bonne Soupe a few blocks away. Hope to see you there.
About FIAF
FIAF's mission is to create and offer New Yorkers innovative and unique programs in education and the arts that explore the evolving diversity and richness of French Cultures. FIAF seeks to generate new ideas and promote cross cultural dialogue through partnerships and new platforms of expression.
French Institute Alliance Française
22 East 60th Street [map]
Between Park & Madison Avenues
New York, NY 10022
Things to do, places to see, with food and booze
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