One more of many reasons I love this time of year. Last Thursday, the 2005 Beaujolais Nouveaux were released upon the world. We started out with my favourite from last year, the Joseph Drouhin, and I have to say, of this year's sampling so far, it remains king. I kind of make an exception to my preference for drier wines when it comes to Beaujolais Nouveau, because although sweet, they tend to be lighter and less cloying than say, a Riesling or a really fruity Chardonnay. But what's awesome about the last two years of Joseph Drouhin is that while you get that distinct, fresh flavor, it's not quite as sweet as some of this variety can get. This exemplifies what I love about Beaujolais Nouveaux, and would make a perfect Thanksgiving companion.

The 2005 Georges Duboeuf is an improvement over 2004's offering, tying with the Mommessin for the second spot, with the Louis Tête a rather disappointing third, considerably lacking in flavor in comparison to others (as well as to itself in previous years, 2001's being exceptionally good).