Chapter 17 - Gamay

Question 1

Basic characteristics of Gamay wines

Answer 1

• Come almost exclusively from Beaujolais (south of Burgundy)
• High acidity, low to medium tannins, red-fruit flavours (raspberry, red cherry, red plum), light-bodied
• Inert vessels, rarely oak aromas
• Techniques for maximum colour with minimum tanning extraction
• Flavours of banana and candy
• Often served lightly chilled
• Most intended for immediate consumption
• Cru appellations are the most concentrated, medium to pronounced red-fruit aromas
• Medium to long finish

Question 2

What are the Beaujolais labeling terms?

Answer 2

• Beaujolais AOC: base wine, mostly made from grapes from the south. Beaujolais with simple flavours
• Beaujolais Villages AOC: Some villages in the north have been awarded this status. Greater flavour intensity
• Beaujolais Crus: 10 villages have been awarded this appellation. Fleurie AOC is the most famous one