The Beaujolais region of France is home to the Gamay grape, and is renowned for several wines produced from this hand-harvested fruit. One of the most well known is the vin de primeur Beaujolais Nouveau, fermented by carbonic maceration and bottled just six to eight weeks after harvest (as opposed to the months or years some wines are given).

Each season’s Beaujolais Nouveau are kept off shelves around the world until a coordinated release on the third Thursday of November. That means when you pop open your first bottle or take your first sip of this fruity, bright, nearly tannin-less vino, folks from France to New York to San Francisco are doing the same.

Where can you get your Beaujolais on? Check out several events held around Baltimore where you can celebrate the release. Le Beaujolais nouveau est arrivé! Or, in localspeak, it’s Beaujolais Nouveau time, baby.

Midnight Beaujolais Nouveau Party
Midnight, Wednesday, November 14
Petit Louis Bistro (4800 Roland Ave.)
As the clock strikes 12, head out to Hampden for the first tastes of this year’s harvest. Stay tuned for more details.

Beaujolais Nouveau Complimentary Tasting
Thursday, November 15
Bin 604 (604 South Exeter St.)
Stop by this Harbor East wine market for free sips of the new 2012 vintage, then pick up a bottle or three of the “light and delightful” French wine to take home.

Beaujolais Wine Tasting
Thursday, November 15
Rowhouse Grille (1400 Light St.)
The Federal Hill tavern is offering a special Beaujolais wine flight of three glasses for $10, and will serve a special French-inspired food menu to go along.

Sixth Annual Beaujolais Nouveau Release Party
6:30 PM, Thursday, November 15; $50
Metropolitan Coffeehouse & Wine Bar (902 S. Charles St.)
The Federal Hill bar will hold its annual “From the Barrel” shindig, at an exclusive 75 person event. Your ticket brings all you can drink 2012 Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau direct from mini barrels, along with tons of French fair like duck confit casserole and coq au vin. RSVP on Facebook or call 410-234-0235 to reserve your spot.

Top photo via Flickr user Sergey Melkonov; bottom photo via Flickr user jetalone

Event Date: 11/15
Event Time: Various Times
Location: Various Bars
Price: Varies