Gamay

Question 1

From what region comes the majority of Gamay (it’s also the most important region in the world for Gamay)?

Answer 1

Beaujolais, France

Question 2

What is the climate of Beaujolais?

Answer 2

Moderate

Question 3

Describe the typical profile of Gamay.

Answer 3

• Dry
• High acidity
• Low to medium tannins
• Lots of bright red fruits
• No new oak

Question 4

Where is Beaujolais in relation to Burgundy?

Answer 4

Immediately south

Question 5

Winemakers can use a specific winemaking technique to craft a particular style of Beaujolais. What are the effects of these techniques on the wine?

Answer 5

• Lighter body
• Low tannins
• Perfumed and aromatic (gum drop, banana)
• Super fresh style

You don’t need to know this for the exam, but the winemaking technique is called Carbonic Maceration.

Question 6

What style of wine would one expect from a wine labeled Beaujolais AOC?

Answer 6

Simple, light bodied, somewhat fruity - generally an acceptable wine.

Question 7

Where can the grapes come from with a Beaujolais AOC wine?

Answer 7

Anywhere within the Beaujolais region, but mostly from the flat land in the southern portion of the region.

Question 8

How many villages within the Beaujolais Villages area are Crus?

Answer 8

10

Know Fleurie and Morgon.

Question 9

What style of wine would one expect from one of the Crus of Beaujolais?

Answer 9

• More structured
• More concentrated
• Exhibits just-ripe red fruits
• Exhibits medium tannins

The Crus of Beaujolais generally do not use Carbonic Maceration.

Question 10

What is the hierarchy of Beaujolais appellations?

Answer 10

From lowest to highest:

• Beaujolais AOC
• Beaujolais Villages AOC
• Beaujolais Crus (e.g. Fleurie AOC)

Question 11

Why are wines from Beaujolais often served slightly chilled?

Answer 11

To showcase their freshness, red fruit flavors, and bright acidity.