red grape

Gamay

Originally from Burgundy, France

Gamay is the red grape of Beaujolais, producing light-bodied, low-tannin wines bursting with red cherry, raspberry, cranberry and violet, often with a distinctive banana or bubblegum note when made by carbonic maceration. High acidity and gentle tannin make it one of the most refreshing reds there is, and it is among the few reds genuinely improved by a light chill. The simple Nouveau bottlings are only part of the story: the ten Beaujolais Crus, led by Morgon, Fleurie and Moulin-à-Vent, make structured wines that age for a decade.

Gamay is a light-bodied red grape variety primarily grown in the Beaujolais region of France. It is known for producing wines with vibrant red fruit flavors, floral notes, and a characteristic freshness.

Taste profile

Body2/5

Tannin2/5

Acidity4/5

Sweetness1/5

Where Gamay is grown

BeaujolaisMorgonFleurieMoulin-à-VentLoire Valley

Food pairings

CharcuterieRoast chickenGrilled salmonSoft cheesesMushroom dishes

Notable Gamay wines

Gaminot

Red Wine

AMI · Beaujolais

Drink 2024–2027

Fleurie Dame de la Pétoche

Red Wine

Domaine de la Madone · Fleurie, Beaujolais

Drink 2023–2027

Gamay

Red Wine

Domaine Camus Renaut · Coteaux de Coiffy

Drink 2024–2026

Crémant de Bourgogne Brut

Sparkling Wine

Cave de Lugny · Burgundy

Fleurie Charbonnières

Red Wine

Domaine Niagara · Fleurie

ROSE DE GAMAY

Rosé

Domaine de la Madone · Fleurie

Drink 2026–2027

Morgon

Red Wine

M. & C. Lapierre · Morgon, Beaujolais

Drink 2026–2035

Gamay

Red

Philippe Ravier · Vin de Savoie

Drink 2025–2028

Similar grapes

Pinot Noir

The classic step up: paler still, more earthy and savoury.

Grenache

Also soft and red-fruited, but riper and higher in alcohol.

Barbera

Comparable acidity and low tannin, with darker fruit.

Gamay FAQ

What is Gamay?

Gamay is a red wine grape that originated in Burgundy, France. Gamay is the red grape of Beaujolais, producing light-bodied, low-tannin wines bursting with red cherry, raspberry, cranberry and violet, often with a distinctive banana or bubblegum note when made by carbonic maceration. High acidity and gentle tannin make it one of the most refreshing reds there is, and it is among the few reds genuinely improved by a light chill. The simple Nouveau bottlings are only part of the story: the ten Beaujolais Crus, led by Morgon, Fleurie and Moulin-à-Vent, make structured wines that age for a decade.

What are the characteristics of Gamay?

On the palate it reads as light-bodied, medium-plus acidity, low tannin. Structurally: body 2/5, acidity 4/5, tannin 2/5, sweetness 1/5.

Is Gamay sweet?

Gamay is almost always vinified bone dry, so expect no perceptible sugar in the glass.

What does Gamay taste like?

Think of it as a light-bodied red. Gamay is the red grape of Beaujolais, producing light-bodied, low-tannin wines bursting with red cherry, raspberry, cranberry and violet, often with a distinctive banana or bubblegum note when made by carbonic maceration. High acidity and gentle tannin make it one of the most refreshing reds there is, and it is among the few reds genuinely improved by a light chill. The simple Nouveau bottlings are only part of the story: the ten Beaujolais Crus, led by Morgon, Fleurie and Moulin-à-Vent, make structured wines that age for a decade.

What food pairs with Gamay?

Reach for Gamay alongside Charcuterie, Roast chicken, Grilled salmon, Soft cheeses, Mushroom dishes.

Where is Gamay grown?

You will find its finest expressions in Beaujolais, Morgon, Fleurie, Moulin-à-Vent, Loire Valley.

What grapes are similar to Gamay?

If you enjoy Gamay, try Pinot Noir, Grenache, Barbera. The classic step up: paler still, more earthy and savoury.

Find Gamay wines in SomeWine

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