As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confirm that there is indeed a shortage of Beaujolais Nouveau in 2022. This is due to a combination of factors, including two small harvests in 2021 and 2022, as well as a dry winter that has raised concerns about this year's production.
The beaujolais winemakers have been unable to meet the orders placed by French supermarkets, leading to a scarcity of this popular wine. This shortage is not only disappointing for wine enthusiasts and consumers, but also poses challenges for retailers who rely on beaujolais sales.
The impact of weather on grape harvests is not uncommon in the world of winemaking. As a brewer, I have experienced firsthand the impact of climatic conditions on the quality and quantity of the raw materials needed for brewing. A dry winter can have a significant impact on grape production, affecting both the yield and the quality of the grapes.
The two consecutive small harvests in 2021 and 2022 have undoubtedly contributed to the shortage of Beaujolais Nouveau. When there is a reduced supply of grapes, winemakers have less raw material to work with, resulting in fewer bottles of wine being produced. This limitation in supply has a direct impact on the availability of Beaujolais Nouveau in the market.
Furthermore, the statement by Bardet, a representative of the beaujolais winemakers, that they “really don't have any stocks” further confirms the severity of the shortage. It suggests that the winemakers are unable to meet the demand for Beaujolais Nouveau, indicating a significant shortfall in production.
The shortage of Beaujolais Nouveau can have consequences beyond just the availability of the wine itself. This wine has become a beloved tradition and a symbol of celebration, particularly with its annual release on the third Thursday of November. Its scarcity may disappoint those who eagerly await its arrival and disrupt the customs and festivities associated with its consumption.
The shortage of Beaujolais Nouveau in 2022 is a result of two small harvests in the previous years and concerns about the current year's production due to a dry winter. The inability of the beaujolais winemakers to meet the orders from French supermarkets indicates a significant shortfall in supply. This shortage not only affects wine enthusiasts and consumers but also has broader implications for traditions and celebrations associated with Beaujolais Nouveau.