FNZBC hosts Beaujolais Nouveau event

Under the auspices of the Economic and Commercial Counselor of France in New Zealand, the French New Zealand Business Council (FNZBC) celebrated the release of Le Beaujolais Nouveau 2008 with a festive evening of French wine, food and culture at SOCA gallery in Newton on Thursday 20th November 2008.

The excitement generated by the arrival of the Beaujolais Nouveau around the world is comparable to the frenzy surrounding the entrance of a superstar. And the FNZBC annually uses this popular event as an unique and enjoyable way for their members and guests to network while tasting the latest vintage Beaujolais, sampling fine French food and having fun.

Catherine Michiels, President of the FNZBC commented: “It’s wonderful to see so many familiar faces from last year’s celebration and I believe that we are really growing our business and cultural francophone base in New Zealand as well as an enthusiastic number of Beaujolais fans.”

Currently exhibiting the work of Piera McArthur, whose displayed work reflects strong French influences, SOCA gallery had a packed turn out of French and New Zealand Diplomatic staff as well as National and Multinational heads of business and their guests.

Recently posted to New Zealand, France’s Economic and Commercial Counselor Monique Amigues commented on the fantastic attendance and lively ambiance and was impressed by the support generated by the bilateral FNZBC members. During her posting she intends working closely with the FNZBC to further harness the opportunities between France and New Zealand.

The 3rd Thursday of November is officially the day that Beaujolais Nouveau is released for sale, as mandated by French law. Traditionally, it is a time of celebration for French winemakers to mark the end of the annual harvest who rush to ship this young wine out across the world as quickly as possible to sell before the end of year.

Despite it being the smallest crop since 1975 due to a soggy European summer, Aucklanders were able to quaff this year’s vintage with its pear and raspberry notes and lift their spirits in defiance of the global economic gloom.

Sponsors for the evening were Areva T&D, Peugeot, Mercury Hotels and Evian, with great raffle prizes drawn for a two night stay at the Wellington Mercure hotel and a weekend away in a new Peugeot cabriolet.

About the FNZBC
The French New Zealand Business Council is an association of companies, incorporated bodies, businesses, professionals and other persons who work voluntarily to further the bilateral trade and development between France and New Zealand. The FNZBC organises various business events around the year which include networking breakfasts, members’ evenings as well as French national events such as Bastille day and Beaujolais Nouveau celebrations.

For more information or details on membership please visit: www.fnzbc.org.nz