Grape Update: Gamay

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, a quick lesson on the Gamay grape, the grape famous for Beaujolais wines.

The Gamay grape is an ancient natural clone of Pinot Noir, and its full name is Gamay Noir a Jus Blanc.  Wines from this grape has a distinctive “Pear drop” aroma.  Three types of Gamay wines are typically made.

Beaujolais Noveau - Producted in the Beaujolais region in France, this wine is fermented for only a few weeks using carbonic maceration to vinitify the wine.  The rush is all about getting the first wine to market, usually around Thanksgiving.  But, these wines are also not known to be of the highest quality.  Check out Wine Specatators 2009 Reviews if you want to try some this year.

Beaujolais Villages - Also uses carbonic maceration but typically uses better fruit and is not rushed thru the fermentation process.  They are usually still a lighter tine and should still be drank young (1-2 years usually).

Beaujolais Cru -  A select few of the classic Beaujolais crus can even be aged 10-15 years and will develop pinot noir traits.  Typically they may not even say Beaujolais on the label, so plan to do some research or ask the resident wine expert in your store.