#WineWednesday: Ontario’s Gamay Kings and Princes

By / Wine + Drinks / October 23rd, 2013 / 1

Last week we talked Beaujolais, which in essence is Gamay under an assumed name.  We all know France is not known for putting grape varieties on labels, thus all their wines are assumed to be what the region is most noted for.

Ontario does not have that issue though there are some grapes that are better known than others, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and Riesling.

Thankfully Ontario winemakers aren’t limited to just those choices and there are some grapes that continue to evolve and garner cult following.

Gamay is one such grape and some wineries are starting to get on-board along with those who have already made their reputation with the grape.

Plus, Gamay is a delicious fall wine and one you should really check out.  With any luck, and it won’t be long, Gamya’ll join the pantheon of great grapes from Ontario … at least I’m hoping so.

Malivoire 2012 Gamay ‘Alive’ ($16.95)

Pure cherry in both aroma and flavour, adds raspberry into the mix and touches of white pepper on the tongue; real purity of fruit in this well-made Gamay.

Fielding 2012 Gamay ($17.95)

Loaded with bright cherry fruit, red licorice, along with a touch of clove and anise; nice hot vintage Gamay.

Tawse 2011 Gamay Noir ($18.95)

Red berries on the nose with hints of white pepper and just the right amount of sour cherry to reign it all in.  Nice cooler vintage Gamay ready to chill and enjoy.

EastDell 2010 Gamay Noir ($12.95)

Vibrant cherry, especially when chilled, along with hints of raspberry and vanilla on the mid-palate, on the finish spice and acidity fight it out.

For more wine suggestions, see our other #WineWednesday posts.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael is an award-winning journalist: Promoting the Promoters Award Cuvée 2010 and Ontario Wine Awards Journalist of the Year 2012.  He is also a national and international wine judge - Ontario Wine Awards, All Canadian Wine Championships; Best of Riesling — Germany; Essencia do Vinho — "Top Wines of Portugal".  He is currently the President of the Wine Writers Circle of Canada and the wine columnist for Ottawa Life and Grand magazine as well as regular contributor to Tidings, and Grapevine ... his reviews have also appeared in the LCBO Vintages magazine. Michael has also added a YouTube channel to his activities where he reviews bottles of great Ontario wine on a weekly basis. In whatever he does, it is Michael’s desire to educate, inspire and encourage others to grow their own love and enthusiasm for wine – and to realize that it is their palate that ultimately makes the decision.

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