Ready for Thanksgiving? Whether serving or heading out, we’ve got the perfect thing for the table. Waiting a bit for the later holidays? Have we a gift for your oneophile host or hostess!

Every year around the world—starting in France, of course—the first fruits of the vintage year are released the third Thursday of November with the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau. The wine gives a preview of the rest of the year’s offerings, and although it has yet to be seen whether this crop is any match for last year’s once-in-a-generation wonder, you can’t go wrong at about $10 a bottle. While these young, fruity reds tend to stagger onto the shelves at various stores, Old Town Wine and Spirits, 1529 Bardstown Rd. in the Highlands, always has it right on time. Look for the festive label from top producer (and promoter) Georges Duboeuf.

While Beaujolais Nouveau is supposed to be consumed early—ideally before the New Year—you don’t need to go long without discovering a new favorite bottle. The Tyler Park Neighborhood Association is gearing up for its annual Wine and Cheese Event, to be held the last Sunday in January (Jan. 30, 2011 this time around) from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Midcity Mall.

Tickets go on sale at Bardstown Road Aglow, Saturday, December 4, at The Wine Market (1200 Bardstown Rd.)—and, according to coordinator Julie French, usually sell out quickly. Also, last year’s inaugural raffle featured gift certificates from myriad local businesses; this year’s contributors have yet to be determined. And although wines and cheese pairings have yet to be selected as well, in the past sponsors The Wine Market (sister shop to Old Town) and ValuMarket have led the way, selecting and serving.

Tickets are $20 and available at The Wine Market starting December 4 or 451-7446. Beaujolais Nouveau is about half the price and available all over starting this coming Thursday, November 18.

Contact the author at leecopywriting@gmail.com or www.leecopywriting.com.