• The time for this season's Beaujolais Nouveau is here and you can sample it at a number of local establishments.

Today, the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board along with Majestic Wine and Spirits is hosting a free tasting party at the Renaissance Hotel Downtown. Stop by for wine and hors d'oeuvres from 5 to 7 p.m.

Also today, Casbah in Shadyside will be offering a four-course menu paired with Beaujolais wines for $55. Reservations are encouraged; 412-661-5656; www.bigburrito.com/casbah.

Today, Pines Tavern in Pine will be holding a tasting from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Taproom. Sample three Georges Duboeuf wines including the Nouveau, along with cheeses chosen to complement the wine, $15 per person, plus tax and gratuity. The Pines Tavern also will offer a special three-course prix fixe today, Friday and Saturday for $27, with optional Beaujolais wine pairings for $9 more; www.thepinestavern.com or 724-625-3252.

On Friday, Ma Provence in Squirrel Hill will have a three-course menu with one glass of beaujolais nouveau for $40 per person; www.maprovencepgh.net or 412-521-2925.

On Sunday, Your Inner Vagabond Coffeehouse will offer a special dinner, starting at 4 p.m. Three courses will be paired with two beaujolais nouveau and a dessert wine, $35 per person, tax and gratuity included. Reservations and pre-payment required; 412-215-9540; www.yourinnervagabond.com.

• Ditka's Pittsburgh will feature a four-course traditional Thanksgiving feast, a chef's dessert station and a limited selection from the regular menu from noon to 7 p.m. The cost for the four-course menu is $24 for adults, $12 for children, and children under 6 are free; www.ditkasrestaurants.com or 412-722-1555.

The Westin Convention Center Hotel is holding a Thanksgiving brunch in the second floor banquet rooms. Seatings are available at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Prices are $34.95 for adults, $29.95 for seniors, $17.50 for kids six to 12 years old and children five and under are free. For reservations, call 412-560-6370.

• Village Candy in Sewickley is debuting a new line of "Sipping Chocolates" with a hot chocolate tasting from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday. Come by for a taste of Caffe D'Amore's Bellagio cocoas, available in original, caramel, cherry or mint flavors. Call 412-741-1490 for more information.

-- China Millman, Post-Gazette Restaurant critic