Gamay Grande Réserve 2016, Les Romaines, Les Frères Dutruy

I often refer to Switzerland as being the eleventh Cru of Beaujolais but the climate can deliver things that Beaujolais just cannot. This is harvested a good month later than is possible in Beaujolais, and it shows.

The wine is matured in oak, but not too heavily. The result is an elegant and rich Gamay nose with plenty of cherry, mainly black but with red present also. The acidity is very apparent on first sipping but that energises the palate and then the oak, tannins and richer flavours come out to bring perfect balance The cherries continue in the mouth and the freshness is delightful.

It is a big Gamay, a wow Gamay, a lovely wine with layers of flavour and complexity, elegant and fresh.