What’s on in Paris this November

1 November 2015

Enjoy Exclusive Wine Tasting Events During a Boutique Break at Amarante Beau Manoir

Not only is France one of the largest producers of wine worldwide, but also for many, the most admired. There are atleast 56 grape varieties grown within its 11 main wine growing regions, which include Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne and Côtes du Rhone… and with such a world-renowned industry on its door step, the capital can boast a whole host of tasting opportunities. Wine fans can plan the ultimate luxury stay in Paris with our guide to the city’s exciting line-up of events and tastings happening this November.

Beaujolais Nouveau

Various Venues

19th November 2015

Wine lovers visiting France on the 19th of November will be in for a treat. Though Beaujolais Nouveau Day may now be a worldwide phenomenon, celebrations don’t come bigger or better than those in France… and this year is no exception. 3,000 winegrowers are involved in producing the 65 million bottles the annual event now commands, and an array of Parisan bars and restaurants will be offering the chance to be one of the first to sample this year’s edition of the fruity, light-bodied drink.

Made exclusively using the Gamay grape, this renowned wine is released onto the market at exactly 12:01am on the third Thursday of November every year. Grapes will have been harvested around late August or early September, and fermented for just a few days, leading to a young red wine that shares similar characteristics to a glass of white. Celebrations of its arrival started as far back as the 19th century, however its specific release date began in 1951 following changes in the law, and was followed by the current tradition of racing to get bottles nationally and internationally.

Celebrations now include 120 festivals in the Beaujolais region alone, which can feature fireworks and music. There will be a whole host of events lined-up within a short stroll of Amarante Beau Manoir, including tastings at Le Vin Qui Danse on Rue de Moscou, which has earned a name for itself by championing local products in its delicious menus. A 15 minute stroll can also lead to events at Le Coin on Rue du Rocher, which was awarded the Golden Bottle in 2005 and Bourgogne Sud, which serves artisanal French food on Rue de Clichy.

If all of that wasn’t enough, 50 winemakers will also be travelling to the capital in Citroën 2CV cars and parading along its streets. The spectacle will be stopping at four key sites including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre; providing the perfect Parisian photo opportunity, and will be accompanied by live music courtesy of a violinist and accordionist. This range of unique celebrations dedicated to the seasonal wine will be truly unmissable for anyone seeking an authentically French experience this November. 

Salon des Vins des Vignerons Indépendants

Porte de Versailles

26th-29th November 2015

For a more indepth exploration of wines, the Salon des Vins des Vignerons Indépendants will gather 995 independent French winegrowers under one roof; each offering fascinating insight into their creations and the chance to buy their award-winning products. Its 37th edition will boast wineries from 50 appellations, a home delivery service to Paris and beyond, as well as an array of delicious foods that will pair perfectly with the complimentary tastings.

The fair is being organised by the ‘Independent Winegrowers of France’; an organisation consisting of 7,000 industry professionals, which aims to defend the independent industry and promote trade. To meet the criteria to get in, winegrowers must run their own vineyard and sell their own wine, with the expectation that they’re responsible regarding quality and the environment, committed to preserving heritage while seeking innovative production methods, and professional in trade. Wine quality is known to match these high standards, and in many cases, has also become award-winning.

Take the opportunity to sample the likes of Château Caillou’s Grand Cru Classé that boasts honey, spice and exotic fruit aromas for €36 per bottle, or raise a toast after opting for Champagne Colin’s Blanche de Castille, which won a Silver Medal in 2014 at the General Agriculture Competition. Fans of red wine can look forward to discovering bottles such as Domaine Vireley-Rougeot’s Pommard 1er Cru ‘Clos des Arvelets’ for €30; a 2012 pinot noir that was aged in oak barrels and offers notes of light violet and vanilla. While, those seeking a more purse-friendly price will be able to find award-winning whites, including those from Domaine A Ronca for just €5.85, or perhaps enjoy an intense nose of figs and cassis with a glass of 2012 Caladoc from Mas de Rey for €6.15.

Alongside the chance to browse products from hundreds of well-known and new wineries, the four day event will also offer many additional attractions. Take the opportunity to create a unique gift or memento by customising a wine bottle with a photo label printed at the show, and sample an array of local produce at the food trucks and stands, including foie gras, duck and chocolates. On arrival, every visitor will also be offered an exquisite tasting glass that’s been approved by the Institut National d’Appelation d’Origine and the ISO; which will be ideal when attending one of three free 45 minute tasting sessions run every day by professionals. Located just 25 minutes from Amarante Beau Manoir, this will be the perfect day out for anyone with even a passing interest in oenology.

Whether you’re hoping to find out more about lesser known wineries in France, enjoy a sip of the some of the year’s very first Beaujolais Nouveux, or simply fancy an authentic taste of France, these outstanding events will provide an exciting and insightful experience during a boutique break in Paris.