Les Athletes du Vin Touraine Gamay, Loire, France

The Les Athl�tes du Vin Touraine Gamay is a delightfully expressive red wine that perfectly embodies the Loire Valley's natural charm and vibrant terroir. This Gamay is crafted with care, highlighting the lively, red-fruited elegance the region is known for. Its roots lie in the sandy-clay soils of Touraine, where 30-year-old vines thrive under sustainable practices, ensuring every sip reflects the harmony of tradition and nature.

Product Details:

• Appellation:ÊIGP Val de Loire
• Grape Variety:Ê100% Gamay
• Soil Type:ÊSandy-clay
• Vine Age:Ê30 years
• Harvest:ÊHand-harvested
• Vinification:ÊDestemmed grapes are macerated for 14 days in concrete tanks, with fermentation occurring through natural methods and gentle remontage (pump-overs).
• Aging:Ê6 months in concrete and steel tanks
• Fining/Filtering:ÊNo fining; light filtration only
• Production:ÊApproximately 5,000 bottles

Sensory Description:

Bright, fresh aromas of wild red fruits mingle with sour black cherries and a touch of spiciness, a nod to the carbonic maceration method used. On the palate, this medium-bodied wine offers a juicy, ripe core of blackberries and cherries, complemented by silky tannins and a delicate, slightly tangy finish. Its unctuous texture and vibrant fruit profile make it a crowd-pleaser.

Winemaker's Background:

Les Athl�tes du Vin is a collaborative project spearheaded by the Vini Be Good collective, a passionate group of Loire Valley winemakers dedicated to producing accessible, high-quality wines. Each bottle is a testament to their commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship. With winemakers like GŽrard VallŽeÑbrother of Ch‰teau YvonneÕs Mathieu VallŽeÑleading the charge, these wines capture the LoireÕs essence, blending innovation with tradition. The playful and iconic label artwork, created by Michel Tolmer, embodies the spirit of the French natural wine movement.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve slightly chilled at around 55¡F for optimal enjoyment. Pair it with a charcuterie board featuring salami and p‰tŽ, or enjoy it alongside lighter poultry dishes. ItÕs equally lovely as an apŽritif, where its vibrant acidity and juicy fruit shine on their own.

This bottle is a perfect representation of the Loire ValleyÕs ability to deliver approachable, natural wines with personality and depth. A must-try for Gamay lovers and curious drinkers alike!