Gamay:  The personable youth from Beaujolais

The Gamay grape is famous for the wines of France's Beaujolais region.  Unlike many red wines, wines from Gamay grapes are better when drunk young - right after they are bottled.  To many, they are best known as Beaujolais Nouveau, a light red wine that appears on the shelf as soon after harvesting as possible, usually within six weeks.  All Beaujolais is made from Gamay.

Gamay grapes produce light, fresh, fruity wines, often with strawberry or raspberry flavors.  The grape is high in acidity and low in alcohol, and very low in tannins.  It's light taste makes it ideal to serve with fish, chicken, salads and light luncheon dishes such as sandwiches and light pastas.