Gamay 2024

Bannockburn Gamay is made from a 1.4-acre vineyard block, originally planted in 2014 and grafted to Gamay in 2019. The site sits at the base of the north facing Olive Tree Hill vineyard and the soil is made up of mixed clay over limestone.

Handpicked fruit was wild fermented initially utilising 100% whole bunch carbonic maceration, then destemmed and pressed to a large format old oak vessel to finish fermentation. The wine was left undisturbed for 10 months prior to bottling.

The densely packed aromas open with blue fruits, white pepper and earthy spice, followed by anise, dried herbs, potpourri and a savoury edge of cured meat. The aromatics are firm and tightly wound, showing impressive depth. The palate is inky and coiled, with a sinewy, almost bloody character beneath savoury notes of game, dark cherry and crushed herbs. Lithe but chewy tannins bring a firm grip, while bright acidity adds definition and tension. This is a brooding and structured expression of Gamay, with serious intent and length. It will benefit from time in bottle, or generous aeration if opened young.

95 points. Made in a cru Beaujolais style, with dark-fruited notes of blackberries, lead pencils, cured meats, spices, violets and salted meats. The palate is plush and rounded, with fine-boned tannins and a bright acidity, balancing fresh, herbal and earth-driven notes. Drink or hold. Screw cap. Ryan Montgomery, jamessuckling.com.

94 points. This is a spicy, nutty, bunchy gamay. It leans heavily towards the savoury side of things, it’s whole bunch influence clear. Cranberry, red cherry, game, assorted roasted nuts and all those smoked herbs. There’s a tension to this wine, and a fine-sinew aspect. It’s an excellent example of the high-savoury style. Campbell Mattinson, winefront.com.au.