When I first tasted this in the Yarra Valley last year amongst a bracket of red and whites grouped under the banner of the “Delinquent Children”, it immediately impressed me. It may even have been a barrel sample, I’m not quite sure. Having polished off a whole bottle on the weekend my opinion hasn’t changed in the slightest. There’s a Nebbiolo, a Chardonnay and a Pinot Noir in this range too. Can’t wait to try them.
This smells of small goods, briary fruit, stalks and black pepper. The palate is where the real action is though. So vital and energetic. It’s alive! Brimful of juicy black cherries and nuts with a mere suggestion of iodine. Light bodied and effortlessly drinkable; full of verve and buoyancy. Stemmy and refreshing architecture. A joyous wine, pure and simple. Feel free to give it a light chill. Gamay-licious. 92 Very Good
Region: Yarra Valley
Alcohol: 12.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $24
Tasted: August 2012
The pepper in that vinoque 2011 gamay is a true expression of Beaujolais Villages style that makes it such a great match with so many foods. Wonder whether the deBorts team will ever have a go at the “Nouveau” style. Reckon there is a place for it but its not a style that my fruit does which leaves DeBorts or Pffeifers to have a crack.
The cracked black pepper was so prominent when I tasted it in the Yarra. It’s a little more subdued now but still a real feature of the wine. I had assumed it came from 80% whole bunches but it seems I was probably wrong in that assumption. Would love to taste the Pfeiffers one day. Not many Brisbane stores retail Australian Gamay so it makes things difficult.
Cheers
J
Have you tried the Sorrenberg Gamay at all Jeremy? It’s quite possibly next on my purchase list. For a ‘niche’ wine it seems to be very well listed amongst Brisbane’s independent retailers.
I have indeed and it currently sits in the position of my favourite Australian Gamay with Eldridge Estate not far behind. And you’re right, it’s the one Aus Gamay you can find at retail level in Brisbane. Cru and Wine Experience come to mind.
Reviews of 2009 and 2010 here:
http://winewilleatitself.com/2010/12/27/2009-sorrenberg-gamay/
http://winewilleatitself.com/2011/10/03/2010-sorrenberg-gamay/
Interesting to see that I find Gamay to be a particularly “joyous” wine. Hadn’t noticed that until now