Gamay: The any occasion wine

One often overlooked wine to open up for just about any party is simply called “Gamay”.  The Gamay grape originated in a part of France’s Burgundy region now known as “Beaujolais”. Sounds fancy, but its casual, easy-to-drink character allows it to be appreciated by just about every wine lover.

In fact, it is a little like Pinot Noir, but you can skip earthiness and brighten the fruit just a little. The result is a light wine that is sometimes a good next step for Sangria drinkers. Served with a plate of assorted cheeses, a nice Gamay is perfect for quaffing along with good company. And their generally low alcohol level also makes for a good starter in advance of a long evening’s entertainment.

But the best thing about a Gamay is its bouquet. It is normally quite distinctive and very easy identify again and again. The good ones start with an initial impression of garden flowers, raspberries, and a little something like a strawberry cream pie! There are almost no tannins in the body, just a light fruitiness that more refreshes than challenges the palate, simple and pleasant.

Some people even like a Gamay because it is informal and tips a little toward the “fruit punch” side of things. Just turned 21? This could be a wine to try first. A seasoned Pinot Noir aficionado? Have a glass of Gamay with cheese and crackers then open your Pinot for the main course.

A very reasonably priced French Gamay is produced by Georges Duboeuf. They are a huge producer (like Kendall Jackson here in states) and pull fruit from a wide growing area to make the blend. Right now they have a 2010 Gamay available from a region known as “Fleurie”; yep it’s a little French flower, with one right on the label. Great for gifting to your sweetie!

It sells for around $15 and has all of the well-known tastes of a French Gamay with a little more tannins and body than usual. This makes it fine with a cheese platter. It may also pair well with roast chicken, or even a burger.

Be sure to serve slightly chilled after about ½ hour in the fridge. No need to age, they drink best young.

Article by Tom Peiffer, Phoenix Wine Shopping Examiner at Examiner.com

View more of Tom’s articles on Examiner.com by visiting his writer’s page.