Local restaurants toast the arrival of beaujolais nouveau

'Tis the season to raise a glass of this fruity, light French red.
'Tis the season to raise a glass of this fruity, light French red.
Photo credit: 
Photo courtesy of Georges Duboeuf


Just in time for the holiday season, the much-heralded arrival of the 2009 batch of wine known simply as Beaujolais Nouveau arrives from France. Everyone seems to be biting at the bit to have the first taste, but according to French law, it's not until the third Thursday in November that the much-anticipated wine can be uncorked. Several eateries in Chicago will be featuring the mild red wine on their menus, but a few are going above and beyond to celebrate. Here's just a taste:


Mon Ami Gabi- A celebration fit for a Francophile, the restaurant will unveil Georges DuBoeuf 2009 in a Beaujolais release party filled with live music and French Can-Can dancers. For $35, guests can sip the young wine, served along with hors d'oeuvres from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. If you can't make it for a first taste, the restaurant is hosting a November 23rd five-course holiday dinner for $65 a person, featuring a rep from Georges DuBoeuf walking guests through the wine parings from the Beaujolais region. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. and reservations are required.


Bistro 110- In honor of the opening day of Beaujolais Nouveau season, this month's Tour de France Wine Tasting event will focus on the Burgundy and Beaujolais regions of France. From 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., guests will be invited to sample a variety of wines produced in the region, in addition to tastes of Poached Salmon, Veal Blanquette and other light menu items selected by Chef Dominique Tougne. The cost for the tasting is $24 per person. Reservations are not required.


Brasserie Jo- Revel in French tradition with celebrations starting on November 20th with $8 glasses, along with a special menu of dinner selections created by Chef J. Joho to pair perfectly with the wine. One of the highlights looks to be Tarte Flambée, featuring escargots à la Bourguignon, onions, and braised leeks. Bottles will also be available for purchase.


For more info visit:


Mon Ami Gabi- 2300 North Lincoln  Park West. 773-348-8886


Bistro 110- 110 East Pearson St. 312-266-3110


Brasserie Jo- 59 West Hubbard St. 312-595-0800

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, Chicago Restaurant Events Examiner

Tracy has eaten her way through Chicago's restaurant scene, while establishing herself as a local feature writer and public relations vet. She's always searching for new trends and 'can't miss' events at local dining hotspots. You can follow her at www.zucchiniblossoms.blogspot.com or email her...

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