Pax Wines Sonoma Alta Monte Gamay 2021

Pax Wines Sonoma Alta Monte Gamay is a Californian Gamay from two vineyards above the Russian River and Bennett Valley.

Genuine Gamay has been scarce in California, since most of what was planted as such turned out to be Valdiguié or a Pinot Noir selection; now that true plant material is available, the variety is taking a larger place in Pax Mahle's range. Two sites make up this bottling. Black-Knight Vineyard, on Alta Monte Road above where the Bennett Valley and Sonoma Coast AVAs meet, sits on a ranch dating to 1880, with volcanic soils and cobbly clay loam, dry-farmed where the season allows. Rancho Coda is steep and high, just over 300 metres above the Russian River Valley, on sandstone with quartz and schist beneath sandy clay loam. Beaujolais methods apply: whole clusters throughout, then ten months in neutral French puncheon.

Spicy red fruit, crunchy and lip-smacking, with focus and length that Gamay does not always deliver. Serve it cool, 13 to 14 degrees. Charcuterie, roast chicken, a pork terrine or a bowl of ratatouille all work.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.