Gamay is one the lightest dark skinned varieties synonymous with the French region of Beaujolais in the Rhone department. A typical Beaujolais is light bodied and displays aromas of freshly picked red fruit with a bright acidity on the palate. Although the finest can age gracefully, most of what is produced is for early consumption. Carbonic maceration is a popular technique used which tends to overlay distinctive aromas of banana and gum. Outside of Beaujolais it is grown in the Savoie region and bordering country, Switzerland. Gamay is best enjoyed chilled or slightly below room temperature and makes a great accompaniment to cheese and charcuterie.
Although considered part of Burgundy - situated just south of Maconnais – Beaujolais is quite different wine territory. The predominant grape variety is Gamay which thrives on the granite and schist soils, meanwhile a small amount of Chardonnay is grown at the top of the region where limestone is more prevalent. Although the region’s reputation is – rather unfairly – based off Beaujolais-Nouveau (the now highly publicized tradition of opening a few bottles of the latest vintage), the region’s highest quality wines comes from ten named villages. The largest in style and longest lived tend to be Moulin-a-Vent and Morgon, while Chenas and Fleurie are lighter and typically express more floral aromas. They can be appreciated year round but seem particularly appropriate in the summer and pair exceptionally well with cheese and charcuterie.
