Gamay and Summer – a Perfect Match
To me summer isn’t summer without a couple of good Gamays to quaff.
Gamay is the grape of Beaujolais, the region right next door to Burgundy, and in fact was grown in Burgundy until that loser of a Lord (actually Duke of Burgundy Philippe the Bold) threw it out for being “disloyal” (Really??? Can a grape really have that characteristic?).
When I say Gamay, and you think Beaujolais Nouveau, think again – Gamay has so much more to offer than what Nouveau is trying to sell you. Like what’s in these versions:
Manoir du Carra 2010 Fleurie, France ($24.95)
Hello sweet fruit, a la black and ripe cherries, this one is for wiling away the hours on the deck, chill and enjoy.
Collin Bourisset 2011 Les Terres Bleues Brouilly, France ($16.95)
Pure Gamay magic in the glass: pure ripe and ready red cherries that demand attention; fresh and lively with great acidity for balance.
Jean-Paul Brun 2012 Terres Dorees Morgon, France ($23.95)
Lots of juicy cherry, well-balanced, and tasty with just enough acidity and tannins to give it the right amount of oomph.
13th Street 2012 Gamay Noir, Ontario ($19.95)
This hot vintage Gamay has plenty of black cherry along with hints of anise and touches of white pepper for balance, yet it manages to keep its acidity.
Fielding 2012 Gamay, Ontario ($17.95)
Lots of bright sweet cherry fruit and red licorice notes, while the palate mixes in anise and a touch of clove. The balance of acidity on the finish is what keeps this one fresh so the sweet fruit does not overwhelm.