Where to get your Beaujolais Nouveau in Atlanta

In Atlanta there are hundreds of Cinco de Mayo parties, but you have to hunt for the Beaujolais Nouveau events. The annual first release of Beaujolais is a time for celebration. While it is often released on our Thanksgiving, this year the date is tonight, November 19. Bottles are flown from France around the world to arrive in time for this big event.  Michael Venezia, Corporate Director of Education with United Distributors believes that enthusiasm for the wine has waned, at least here in Atlanta, over the years. “It’s more about fad than fine wine,” he says, describing the product as “recently fermented, fruity and lighter bodied, generally lacking in character and depth.” 

But don’t let that dissuade you from this fabulous excuse for an excellent French meal.  Read how Washington D.C. celebrates at the DC Traveler here.  In Atlanta, the biggest party will be held by the French American Chamber of Commerce at the Au Pied de Cochon (see map) at the Intercontinental Hotel.

You can also taste and sup at the following restaurants:

Joel (see map) – $19 Coc au vin Facon w/a glass of Beaujolais Nouveau

Anis Cafe, Buckhead (see map)

Atmosphere, Ansley Park (see map)

Violette, (see map)

Apres Diem, midtown (see map)

La Petite Maison, Sandy Springs (see map)

and finally – Outside the Perimeter (OTP)

the Blue Bicycle, behind the Outlet Mall in Dawsonville. (see map)

In spite of its location, the Blue Bicycle has wonderful food. This week’s special is Duck with Brandy Cherry Sauce. See my review here.

(Photo: personal collection.)