2019 Terres Blondes Val de Loire Gamay

Though you might associate Gamay most closely with Beaujolais, the growing conditions and soils of the eastern Loire region also suit that light, relatively acidic grape. “Terres Blondes” is a release from Jean-Sébastien Marionnet (son of famed Touraine winemaker Henri Marionnet): the estate contracts with growers from the region to assemble a reasonably-priced blend. After being harvested by hand, the grapes are carbonically macerated and aged without oak. The profile is a touch earthier than the fruitiest Beaujolais, with minerality and tang to back up a floral nose. Sustainably grown.