Bonjour mes amis! At The Refinery, your little corner of France in the heart of Saigon for over 20 years, we have a tradition. A tradition that involves delectable French cuisine, lively atmosphere, and of course, *du vin*! This November, we’re not just growing a moustache for Movember, we’re growing our appreciation for a region unfairly shadowed by a certain… *nouveau* release. This November, it’s all about Le Beaujolais PAS Nouveau!
Fifteen Years of Celebrating the Real Beaujolais
For the past fifteen years, The Refinery has been raising a glass to the *real* Beaujolais. We’re talking about the crus, the wines that truly showcase the beauty and complexity of the Gamay grape. Forget the predictable, sometimes… *ahem*… underwhelming Beaujolais Nouveau hangovers. We’re inviting you to a proper *tour de France*, right here in Saigon, through the vineyards that make Beaujolais truly special.
We believe that good wine, like good food and good company, should be savored, not rushed. The Beaujolais crus deserve the respect and attention they have earned. It’s time to rediscover this wonderful, often-overlooked region.
Discover the Crus: A Month-Long Journey
All month long, our specials board will be featuring five exquisite Beaujolais crus, carefully selected to showcase the diversity and depth of the region. We invite you to explore, sip, and savor each one. Let our knowledgeable staff guide you through the nuances of each cru, and discover the perfect pairing for your meal.
Think of it as a vinicultural adventure! Prepare your palate for:
- Morgon: Known for its earthy, cherry notes and aging potential.
- Moulin-à-Vent: Often called the “King of Beaujolais,” with floral aromas and robust structure.
- Fleurie: The “Queen of Beaujolais,” delicate and fragrant with red fruit flavors.
- Chénas: The smallest cru, elegant and silky with peony and violet aromas.
- Juliénas: Named after Julius Caesar, fruity and spicy with a good balance of acidity.
Each cru offers a unique expression of the Gamay grape, influenced by its specific terroir. We’re confident you’ll find a new favorite! Why not try a different one each week? *C’est magnifique!*
Why Beaujolais? A Little History
Beaujolais, located south of Burgundy in France, has a rich and fascinating history. For centuries, it was considered a less prestigious region than its northern neighbor. The focus was on producing simple, easy-drinking wines for the local market. However, in recent decades, a new generation of winemakers has emerged, committed to showcasing the true potential of the Gamay grape and the region’s unique terroir.
Here’s a little history, *pour vous*:
- Roman Roots: The Romans planted the first vineyards in Beaujolais around the first century AD.
- Gamay’s Arrival: The Gamay grape was introduced in the Middle Ages and quickly became the dominant variety.
- The Rise of Beaujolais Nouveau: In the 20th century, Beaujolais Nouveau became a global phenomenon, celebrated annually on the third Thursday of November. While fun, it somewhat overshadowed the quality and complexity of the crus.
- A Renaissance: In recent years, there’s been a renewed focus on producing high-quality Beaujolais wines, particularly the crus, leading to a rediscovery of the region’s potential.
“Le Vin des Copains”: The Wine of Good Friends
At The Refinery, we believe that wine is best enjoyed with friends. Beaujolais, with its approachable style and vibrant flavors, is the perfect “vin des copains” – the wine of good friends. It’s a wine that encourages conversation, laughter, and shared moments. So gather your friends, raise a glass, and discover why Beaujolais is truly a wine to celebrate.
Join the Celebration!
So come join us at The Refinery this November, sharpen your palate, and discover the magic of Beaujolais. We are extremely proud to be bringing this celebration to you for the past 15 years. Come celebrate with us, because here at The Refinery, we do things right. We have some special events planned to mark the occasion:
Dance the Night Away on November 20th!
Mark your calendars! On November 20th, starting at 6 PM, we’ll be hosting a special evening with two fantastic DJs to celebrate Le Beaujolais PAS Nouveau! Get ready to dance the night away with:
- DJ Paully: Bringing his signature blend of French House and Disco to the Refinery.
- DJ Bambane: Setting the mood with soulful grooves and infectious rhythms.
It’s going to be a night of great music, great wine, and even better company. *On y va!* (Let’s go!)
We look forward to welcoming you to The Refinery and sharing our passion for Beaujolais. À bientôt!
