Gamay

The Niagara Peninsula is well-known for this grape varietal. Gamay, also known as “Gamay Noir,” is a red wine grape variety. Its origins go as far back as the 15th century with its descent coming from Germany, but it is most notably grown in Beaujolais and in the Loire Valley in France. It’s often cultivated because of its ability to produce high yields and mass quantities, and it’s very low maintenance.

Gamay wines are typically light-bodied, with fruity raspberry and cherry tart flavours, and a fresh pepper nose. Depending on the winemaking style, you can expect unique flavours of banana, bubblegum or even cotton candy. Red wine made with Gamay typically has soft tannins with lively acidity.

Gamay is one of the most common grapes grown in the Niagara Peninsula in Ontario, it can also be found in Prince Edward County. Gamay is a wonderful sipping wine on its own, but also pairs well with food. Try it with roast turkey, grilled salmon or even a summer salad.

In summary, Gamay has the following characteristics:

• Red wine grape variety
• Origins go as far back as the 15th century
• Descent comes from Germany
• Most notably grown in Beaujolais and Loire Valley in France
• Can produce high yields and mass quantities
• Viticulture is usually low maintenance
• Light bodied with fresh raspberry and cherry tart flavours
• Soft tannins with lively acidity
• One of the most common grapes grown in the Niagara Peninsula