Beaujolais Nouveau Hits Chicago

The 3rd Thursday of November is arriving, so that means it is time for Beaujolais Nouveau 2009!  We went over this phenonmenon last year, but millions of cases of this wine will be released to the world this Thursday at 12:01am, with a bunch coming right here to Chicago.  Not only will the wine be available for purchase, but the city will be partying down with this tasty, easy drinking wine.  Here is a list of specials and events:

Bistro 110: Burgundy/Beaujolais Tasting.  Head to this Magnificent Mile bistro at 6pm this Thursday for a 6 wine tasting paired with offerings from Chef Dominique Tougne which include cheese, charcuterie, garlic sausage, veal blanquette, poached salmon, and dessert.  $25.

Brasserie Jo: This Friday, enjoy Beaujolais Nouveau by the glass ($8) or bottle ($39) with a la carte pairings of escargots, saucisson, and beef bourguignon.

Cafe des Architectes: Head to the Sofitel Water Tower for a Four Course Prix Fixe.  This menu features French dishes made with local ingredients such as Swan Creek Farm pork belly and chicken, Nichols Farm cippolini onions, and Fayette Creamery camembert.  This menu will be featured Thursday-Saturday.  $45.

French-American Chamber of Commerce: 25th Annual Passport to France.  Enjoy French cuisine from local restaurants paired with 2009 Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau along with other French wines and spirits.  There will also be a silent auction and chances to win a trip to France.  At the Union League Club of Chicago.  $50 in advance, $60 at the door.

Kiki's Bistro: Pairing Beaujolais Nouveau with regular menu items.  Wines from Montes Vineyards of Chile will also be featured.

La Sardine: If you're hanging around Harpo Studios, stop in to enjoy Beaujolais Nouveau paired with a Four Course Prix Fixe retro menu.  Seafood gratin, duck consumme, monkfish, and dessert.  $35.

L'Eiffel Bistro & Creperie: If you're out near South Barrington, head to this lively little bistro for the festivities.  Live music, Beaujolais Nouveau, and a Three Course Prix Fixe.  $35.50.

Mon Ami Gabi: Live music, prizes, 2009 Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau, and hors d'oeuvres at both the Lincoln Park and Oak Brook locations.  $35.