Manson,WA (MVT) - Nouveau, which means “new” in French, is
a term borrowed from the celebrations that occurred initially throughout wine-loving Paris and now across France, when each new and much-anticipated vintage of Beaujolais was transported into the city from outlying vineyards. Enthusiastic Parisians crowded into cafes and restaurants to try the newest wine, eager to stock their own wine cellars with the enticing young wines.
During back to back weekends in April, the boutique wineries of the Lake Chelan Wine Growers Association will celebrate the release of "nouveau" white and rose' wines. All of the premier, award-winning locally produced wines will be available for tasting and purchasing – but the spotlight will be on the vibrant young, never-before-offered releases.
Visitors to the wineries can take advantage of special Nouveau pricing, vineyard tours and live entertainment as Lake Chelan Wineries release traditional favorites like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir Rose’, Pinot Gris, Viognier, Riesling, Gewurztraminer and fabulous blends including Edelzwicker. A comprehensive list of Nouveau wine releases, tasting room hours and special event activities planned at each winery can be found on the association website: lakechelanwinevalley.com.
Free wine tour maps are available at the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce and many area businesses. Mark your calendars now for the next Lake Chelan Wine Valley event: Spring Barrel Tasting, May 16-18, 2008.