Thanksgiving Wines: 2009 Beaujolais Nouveau

The tasting of each year's Beaujolais Nouveau is a Thanksgiving tradition to be had by all. Beaujolais, a region of Burgundy, France where nearly 3,600 growers produce the ever-loved varietal, is released the third Thursday of every November just one week before we carve our turkeys.

Made of 100% Gamay grapes, which have thinner skins than others grapes causing lower tannin levels, Beaujolais Nouveau by law must be hand-grown on individual free-standing vines. It is young, vivacious and ultimately fruit-forward. Its versatility complements many dishes and can a great accompaniment to your holiday entertaining. And rumor has it, this year's vintage is going to be better than those of the past 50 years.

Try George Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau ($9.99) and serve cool!