2023 Les Athlètes du Vin Gamay

Aromas of fresh raspberry, wild strawberry, and violet petals integrate with savory notes of white pepper and a hint of damp earth. The palate is light to medium-bodied and exceptionally crunchy, featuring a core of tart red fruit and a subtle mineral snap. It displays a balanced structure with soft, approachable tannins and a racy acidity that leads to a clean, mouth-watering finish marked by a touch of pomegranate.

Winemaker Matthieu Barret and the Athlètes du Vin collective utilize 100% Gamay grapes harvested at peak freshness. In the cellar, the fruit is fermented using native yeasts in stainless steel tanks to emphasize primary fruit energy and a vibrant "glou-glou" style. The wine undergoes a short maceration to keep the texture light and the tannins supple. It matures for several months in neutral vessels, a process that allows the wine to settle naturally without the influence of new oak, preserving its bright, linear profile.

The fruit is grown in the Touraine region of the Loire Valley, France. The site is defined by its "tuffeau" limestone and clay soils, which provide the ideal drainage and mineral tension for the Gamay grape. These vineyards benefit from a temperate maritime climate that allows for a long, steady ripening period. This unique terroir produces a wine focused on freshness and aromatic lift, reflecting the collective's commitment to creating high-quality, accessible wines that capture the authentic spirit of the Loire.