3.17 Gamay Flashcards
What single region grows most of the world’s Gamay?
Beaujolais, France
Where is Beaujolais located?
Directly south of Burgundy
(Technically, it’s the southernmost of the 5 sub regions of Burgundy, but is sometimes considered separate, as it’s wine styles differ dramatically from the rest of Burgundy)
What’s the climate of Beaujolais?
Moderate
Describe the typical profile of Gamay.
- Dry
- High acidity
- Low to medium tannins
- Bright red fruits (sometimes candied)
- New oak is rarely used
What winemaking “tool” is often utilized with Beaujolais?
Carbonic Maceration
Maximizes color extraction and minimizes tannin extraction, producing the following:
* Lighter body
* Low tannins
* Perfumed and aromatic (red Jolly Rancher, banana Laffy Taffy)
* Super fresh style
Describe the style of Beaujolais AOC. Where do in the appelation do these wines generally hale from?
Simple
Light bodied
Fruity
Anywhere in Beaujolais - but mostly from flat fertile vineyards to the south.
Describe the style of Beaujolais-Villages AOC. Where can these wines hale from?
Greater flavor intensity and body than Beaujolais AOC.
From a collection of villages in the north- generally on slopes, with better sun exposure and well draining soils- allowing greater ripeness than Beaujolais AOC.
Describe the style of Beaujolais crus. Where can these wines hale from?
Ten “crus” within the Beaujolais Villages.
- More structured
- More concentrated
- Exhibits just-ripe red fruits
- Exhibits medium tannins
- Generally do not use Carbonic Maceration.
- While most are made to be consumed young, the best are age-worthy.
Name 2 Beaujolais Cru
Fleurie AOC
Morgon AOC
Are Beaujolais wines ever served chilled? Why?
Yes - To showcase their freshness, red fruit flavors, and bright acidity.
What’s the hierarchy of Beaujolais appellations? )(owest to highest):
Beaujolais
Beaijolaie-Villages
Beaijolais Cru
