At midnight on the third Thursday in November, Beaujolais Nouveau wine can, by French law, officially be released to the world.
A celebration takes place on that day, known as Fête du Beaujolais Nouveau, Beaujolais Nouveau Day, or colloquially Bojo Novo Day, it fell this year on 21 November.
The wine is dubbed the ‘world’s fastest wine’ and is drunk in the same year the grapes are harvested.
Sommelier, author and co-founder of Sune restaurant in Broadway Market, Hackney, Honey Spencer said: “It was definitely a big occasion in the year when my parents were growing up and they absolutely love it.
“It is just a brilliant time to bring people together.”
The festival began in 1951 in the Beaujolais region, it expanded internationally with wine bars, wine shops and restaurants holding events.
In London, it hit its height of popularity in the 1980s.
Celebrations across London continue despite increased difficulties importing the wine after Brexit with increased customs charges.
Spencer, who imported a barrel of the wine, explained increased organisation and commitment are now required for Beaujolais Nouveau Day celebrations.
Despite this, there has been a growth in Beaujolais Nouveau Day events in the English capital.
Reasons for the comeback have been cited as increasing craftsmanship, social media promotion, natural wine popularity as well as an interest in wine tradition.
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