Another surprisingly delicious Gamay from an unexpected place, the Mari Vineyards Gamay Noir from Old Mission Peninsula, Michigan.
100% Gamay from vines just four years old in the Jamieson Vineyard in Old Mission Peninsula, Michigan. The wine was aged for 10 months in 300L neutral Hogsheads.
Sample submitted for review. The Mari Vineyards Gamay Noir has an SRP of $26 (Saturday Splurge) and is available at that price.
Gamay Noir was first planted on Old Mission Peninsula in the late 1980s, and it has since become one of the region’s standout varieties. A native French grape, our Gamay presents as a medium bodied wine, billowing with fruity characteristics – an homage to its Beaujolais pedigree.
13% Alcohol
We’ve been on a bit of a Gamay kick lately, tasting some delicious examples not only from their home in France but also such unexpected places as Slovenia. Well today we’ve got another unexpected one – Michigan! Just like the Cabernet Franc and Bordeaux blend we recently reviewed, here’s another example of the good things coming out of Old Mission Peninsula.
The 2017 Mari Vineyards Gamay Noir begins with a very pleasing aroma full of tart cherry fruit, an earthy peppery streak and some mint and spice. The light-bodied wine tastes lovely and fresh with more tart berry fruit plus plenty of black pepper and licorice. This is another surprising rendition of Gamay from a place you’d never expect, I love it! It’s also amazing that this wine is from vines that are just 4 years old. Juicy tart berry and cranberry notes linger on the long, dry finish. Splurge approved!
Ready to buy? Check your local retailers.
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