Gamay
Do you like the posture of being a rebel for good with the perseverance which proves that truth stands the test of time? Well then you might like Gamay for more than its wine characteristics.
Region
In the 14th and 15th centuries two Dukes of Burgundy issued edicts against the cultivation of the Gamay grape. Why would they take such a drastic action against such a resilient, high production, good quality grape? They were local boys and Royal Snobs who favored the perceived elegance of their Pinot Noir, apparently the Dukes of Burgundy – Philippe the Bold and Philippe the Good believed that they were known as the “lords of the best wines in Christendom” and were willing to do whatever they thought needed to retain their “reputation”.
In the 1360s south of Beaune, France the village of Gamay is thought to be the location the Gamay grape first appeared, its origin is actually Burgundy several miles west of its namesake. Possibly, a distinction not bestowed by a Royal therefore a common name which was not acceptable to the Dukes.
The Gamay parentage is the Gouais Blanc x Pinot. The Gouais Blanc is no longer a major white grape variety meaning that it is seldom grown but it has a permanent history being the ancestor to many French and German grape varieties. Ironically Gouais derives from the old French adjective ‘gou’ which is a term of derision befitting its traditional status as the grape of the peasants. This makes it easier to understand why a Duke would prefer a Pinot Noir to a Gamay. Lineage and Roots… and I suspect that if we trace the lineage of the Bold Good Dukes of Burgundy back far enough we would once again find a hearty perseverant commoner building a lifestyle for his family. Could that be another article I will write?
I find the game of quality, society, status and recognition to be entertaining and humorous. Yet, it is so obvious that anyone, any social status may enjoy the wonderful flavors of the fruit of the vine even more so with a bit of knowledge in history and characteristics is connected to what your palate is experiencing.
Pairing
Cold meats, roasted chicken or duck, grilled pork, lamb or veal, seared tuna and salmon, dishes prepared with fruit such as seared duck breast with cherries or figs, lamb tajine with dates, prunes and apricots. Some pairings will depend on the vintage being a lighter fruitier or weightier more full-bodied year.
Connoisseur Components
Flavors and Aromas; red fruit, cranberry, raspberry, cherry, earth and mineral notes of limestone, underbrush, light black pepper and complexities of dried carnation and cinnamon
Structure: light body, little to no tannins, sugar is dry, acid is high alcohol is a medium 10.5% to 12.5%
Dirt: granite limestone, clay sandstone schist
Climate: cool to moderate
Main Regions: Beaujolais, France; Loire Valley, France; Burgundy, France; Valle d’Aosta, Italy; Oregon, USA; Santa Barbara, CA, USA; Canada, Switzerland.
Remembering Your Gamay Experience
When you remember that a strong will to survive can get you through tough times you might have a different perspective for Gamay since a vine is incapable of protecting itself yet here it is seven centuries later and the Beaujolais Gamay is much more than surviving, it is quite thriving even to the point of surpassing the Pinot Noir of Burgundy.
In an Eater.com article a.kitchen’s Wega says “Gamay wines are probably the most versatile reds I can think of with food. They are approachable and consistent yet expressive and complex, totally over delivering for the price.”
Apparently the Gamay is an experience that you can enjoy as you see fit, chilled or room temperature depending on the season.
Where to Go Next
Considering that the Gamay was so strongly opposed by the Dukes of Burgundy why not follow the story and investigate their claims, determine yourself if the Pinot Noir truly earns its credentials.