Each year, on the third Thursday of November, the arrival of the first Beaujolais (otherwise known as the start of a new wine season) is celebrated with music and fireworks. This year, First Dates host Fred Sirieix has climbed aboard the hype train, launching his very own wine blend for M&S to celebrate.
Fred is by no means the first celebrity to get involved in grape goods. Gary Barlow has a range of organic wines, Post Malone has a fruity rosé and Idris Elba has even opened a wine bar in King’s Cross, Porte Noire.
But, of all the celebrities to get involved in the scene, one could argue Mr Sirieix is the most qualified. Aside from being a TV host, author and actor, he has worked at Le Gavroche, Sartoria, Bluebird Cafe and was general manager at Galvin at Windows for some 13 years. Then, in 2020, he became the wine ambassador for Marks & Spencer, with whom he has launched his Beaujolais blend.
Generally speaking, Beaujolais comes from the eponymous region in France, while the addition of ‘Nouveau’ communicates that the wine is young, to be drunk just a few weeks after harvest.
Fred’s Beaujolais Nouveau blend, like wines from the region, is made from the Gamay grape. It’s light-bodied, bright purple in colour and perfect for drinking right away. Due to its levity, it can be served slightly chilled, although this is less common here due to British weather in late November.
According to the man himself, it’s the 'perfect party drink this season' and 'an absolute must-have to accompany festive nibbles'. He went on to say 'This is an incredibly special time of year because you can only get your hands on this French classic for a limited time after its release this week, so be quick!'
Buy Fred Serieix’s Beaujolais Nouveau 2022 from M&S, £8
Speaking of TV personalities, did you know Hairy Biker Si King’s is opening a restaurant in Sunderland next year?