This year's Beaujolais Nouveau will finally be available on November 21st. While last year's grape harvest was devastated by hail damage, this year's harvest is expected to be excellent, even though it was delayed by one to two weeks.

Although the market has shrunk since the bubble era, producers' production techniques, such as barrel aging, have improved in recent years, leading to a rise in the quality of the wine. Furthermore, as an annual event, many die-hard fans look forward to the year's grapes.

Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store is offering a number of limited-edition wines, featuring long-established wineries, notable producers, and organic wines. "Jean Carillon" (2,730 yen), made without the use of any antioxidants (SO2), and a three-bottle set of recommended Nouveau half-bottles from the venerable Maison Champy (4,725 yen, red, white, and rosé) have reportedly sold out in advance. Other wines that are gaining attention include "Maison du Tastrüns" (3,150 yen), made using the same methods as regular Burgundy red wines, without going against nature, and "Domaine Dupré" (2,940 yen), made with high-sugar grapes from old vines with an average age of over 80 years. Other popular wines include "Gilles Pérez" (3,465 yen), available in a 500ml bottle, between the standard 750ml and half-bottle 375ml, and wines made with organic ingredients and methods. Beaujolais Nouveau, a fruity, youthful, and less astringent new wine, is said to be best enjoyed slightly chilled, even as a red. Beaujolais Nouveau's light flavor makes it easy for even beginners to enjoy. Why not come and check out this year's grape harvest before anyone else in the world?