GAMAY

The grape variety of joy and conviviality

Gamay is one of the most fascinating and authentic expressions of French viticulture, a grape variety capable of producing wines of extraordinary drinkability and pleasantness without sacrificing complexity and ageing potential. Historically linked to Beaujolais, a region located between Burgundy and the Rhône, this grape variety has had mixed fortunes: unfairly relegated for centuries to the role of Pinot Noir's “little brother” after the famous edict of 1395 in which Philip the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, ordered its uprooting from the noble Burgundian lands, it has experienced a real renaissance in quality over the last decade. Our selection explores the entire spectrum of its expressions, from the most immediate and fruity versions to the complex and structured Crus of Beaujolais, favouring producers who interpret the different terroirs with respect and precision and who are contributing to the rediscovery of this grape variety's quality potential. Particular attention is given to winemakers who work according to organic or biodynamic principles, an approach that is particularly widespread among the new generation of producers who have revolutionised the image of this grape variety, favouring less interventionist vinification methods that enhance the purity of the fruit and the expression of the territory.

From Beaujolais Nouveau to Crus: the aromatic journey of Gamay

The world of Gamay is characterised by an extraordinary stylistic diversity that is reflected in our selection. Beaujolais Nouveau, the famous young wine traditionally released on the third Thursday of November, is the most immediate and fruity expression of the grape variety, with its characteristic carbonic maceration vinification that enhances the primary aromas of banana, strawberry, raspberry and candy. Our collection highlights the most authentic and least industrial versions of this style, alongside the more complex Beaujolais Villages, which come from 39 communes selected for the quality of their terroirs. However, the true heart of the selection is represented by the 10 Beaujolais Crus (Morgon, Moulin-à-Vent, Fleurie, Chiroubles, Brouilly, Côte de Brouilly, Saint-Amour, Chénas, Juliénas and Régnié), each with distinctive characteristics that reflect differences in soil, exposure and microclimate. From the more elegant and floral profile of Fleurie to the more powerful and “Burgundian” structure of Moulin-à-Vent, to the earthy minerality of Morgon, these wines offer a fascinating exploration of Gamay's ability to express terroir. Particular attention is paid to parcels of old vines, capable of producing wines of extraordinary concentration and complexity, with ageing potential that can exceed 15-20 years in the best vintages and from the best producers.

Beyond Beaujolais: Gamay around the world and new interpretations

Our selection goes beyond the borders of Beaujolais to explore other expressions of this versatile grape variety. The Loire is an alternative territory of choice for Gamay, with the appellations of Touraine, Anjou and Côteaux du Loir offering interpretations characterised by a particular minerality and freshness. Switzerland, with Gamay from Geneva and Vaud, produces versions of great finesse that express the more alpine character of the grape variety. There are also interesting examples from the New World, particularly New Zealand and Oregon, where some pioneers are achieving promising results thanks to cool climates that are ideal for this variety. Particular focus is given to producers who are experimenting with new approaches, from whole bunch vinification (using whole bunches) that enhances complexity and structure, to fermentation with indigenous yeasts, to the use of alternative containers such as amphorae and concrete. Alongside more traditional interpretations, the collection highlights the “natural winemakers” movement, which has found its epicentre in Beaujolais, with iconic producers who have revolutionised the approach to Gamay, favouring minimal intervention in the cellar, no sulphur (or minimal additions) and vinification methods that enhance the pure expression of the fruit and terroir. These wines, carefully selected by our experts, represent the perfect balance between immediate pleasure and complexity, offering a joyful but never banal drinking experience, ideal for accompanying convivial moments but also capable of surprising the most demanding palates with their depth and authenticity.