Gamay grape variety
Gamay is a red grape variety that is mainly grown in the French region of Beaujolais. The wines are light to medium-bodied, with low tannins and lively acidity. Gamay wines show flavours of red fruits such as strawberry, red cherry or raspberry, complemented by floral notes. A special fermentation technique called "maceration carbonique" gives the wines an often exuberantly fruity and tangy character. Gamay is usually drunk young, and Beaujolais Nouveau is even launched on the market the year it is harvested. However, the ten Beaujolais Cru regions also produce more complex Gamay with significant ageing potential. Gamay offers a refreshing alternative to stronger red wines, can also tolerate slight chilling and is therefore ideal for warm summer evenings.