A delightfully fruity, supple grape, Gamay is the red variety behind Beaujolais. A little Gamay is also found in the lesser-known vineyards of Burgundy, the Touraine region of the Loire and in California.
In the Cru areas of Beaujolais, such as Moulin à Vent, Gamay becomes sturdier and more complex, lending itself to light oak-ageing. With maturity, these wines can take on the 'gamey' aspect of top Burgundy.
Gamay generally goes it alone in Beaujolais and elsewhere. The exception is Burgundy, where it's blended with Pinot Noir to form the rarely-seen Bourgogne-Passe-Tout-Grains.
Varying from light red to deep purple in top vintages, Gamay is best enjoyed young. Red Summer berry fruits and soft tannins make it a sexy summertime drink, best enjoyed chilled with a lavish picnic!
