Where to Sip Beaujolais Nouveau Tonight

Wine enthusiasts from all over are all abuzz over the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau today, Thursday, November 18th. Released annually every third Thursday of November, the limited-time release of the light and fruity wine is anticipated by many, including in the Houston area. Below are celebrations being held this evening for the new vintage of Beaujolais Nouveau.


Wine Tastings:

• 13 Celsius: Sample what all the buzz is about at one of Midtown's best wine bars' Beaujolais Nouveau celebration. Beginning at 5 p.m. sample a six ounce pour for $10 or purchase a bottle for $36 while supplies last. Accompany wine with melted raclette served in a traditional style over house-made pickles, root vegetables and toast for $7 per plate. 3000 Caroline, 713-529-8466.
  
  
• Sonoma Wine Bar: Raise a glass to toast to Beaujolais Nouveau's arrival at the wine bar's Heights and Upper Kirby locations. Both bar are hosting a wine tasting featuring five wines for $20. Throughout the evening, wine by the glass will be specially priced from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 801 Studewood St, 713-864-9463 and 2720 Richmond Ave, 713-526-9463.

Wine Dinners:

• Bistro Provence: In addition to new vintages of Beaujolais Nouveau, owner and chef Genevieve Guy will serve 2011 and 2012 vintages at her restaurant's annual wine dinner. Collaborating with French Country Wines, the Beaujolais Nouveau dinner will feature four-courses that include Parmentier de canard (duck confit over mashed potatoes)  and Epaule d'agneau rôtie aux prunes (ratatouille, roasted lamb shoulder with prunes, served with ratatouille). Reservations recommended. $65 plus tax and gratuity. Dinner begins at 7 p.m. 13616 Memorial Dr, 713-827-8008.
  
• Bistro Le Cep: The arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau isn’t going unnoticed at this West Houston French bistro. Along with the available bottles of Beaujolais Nouveau ($28.50), diners can pair a special three-course dinner with wine by-the-glass for $8.50. Entrées are include a grilled bone in rib-eye steak for $45.95 and Cassoulet de Toulouse (confit of duck, lamb, sausage and pork baked with white beans) is $35.95. Reservations recommended. 11112 Westheimer Rd, 713-783-3985.