Wine Enthusiast Takes a Look at America’s New Nouveau-Style Wines

Division Winemaking Company founders Kate Norris and Thomas Monroe took cues from the Fête de Nouveau in Beaujolais and released its first Gamay-based nouveau wine in 2012. Gamay was a no-brainer for Norris and Monroe, thanks to their strong connection with Beaujolais, where they learn how to make wine. However, they feel that nouveau is more about the concept than variety. “It really doesn’t matter what grape you use,” says Monroe. “It’s about cause and celebration with your peers and community.”