2024 Domenica Gamay, Beechworth

Beechworth, with its continental climate, is surely a good place to grow Gamay. And Chardonnay. I’m typing quickly here, because I left my charger elsewhere, and I’m about to run out of power…

Raspberry, black cherry, hazelnut, a bit spicy and autumnal too, mint and dried flowers, but you know what, it most certainly speaks to the grape variety, and also has a cool steel-like inflection, which is very nice. It’s medium-bodied, succulent, red and black fruited, a bit earthy and nutty, balanced acidity, with a fine sooty tannin finish of excellent length offering some almond paste richness. Yum. So good.

94 points Gary Walsh winefront.com.au Feb 2025 Alcohol 13.7% Drink 2025 - 2030

Domenica Gamay from Beechworth is a fun and lively wine that’s perfect for those who love a fresh, fruit-driven red. Beechworth, with its cool climate and elevated vineyards, provides the ideal environment for Gamay, a grape known for its bright acidity and easy-drinking style. Domenica, a small-batch winery, has crafted a wine that really brings out the best of this vibrant variety, making it perfect for casual sipping or pairing with a variety of dishes.

The grapes for this Gamay come from carefully tended vineyards, where the cool nights and warm days allow the fruit to ripen slowly while retaining its freshness. The winemaking process is simple and hands-off, with a focus on letting the fruit express itself. The wine is fermented in stainless steel, which helps preserve the vibrant fruit and gives it that pure, juicy character.

In the glass, Domenica Gamay is a beautiful deep ruby red, with a slightly translucent quality that hints at its lightness. The nose is an inviting mix of fresh red berries—think strawberries, raspberries, and cherries—along with a touch of spice and a slight earthy note that adds a bit of complexity.

On the palate, this Gamay is light to medium-bodied with a juicy, almost thirst-quenching quality. The red fruit flavors are fresh and bright, with a burst of strawberry and raspberry, while a subtle earthiness and a hint of spice give the wine a bit of extra character. The acidity is crisp and refreshing, making it an easy-drinking wine that still has plenty of depth.

Domenica Gamay is super food-friendly, which makes it a great choice for a variety of dishes. It pairs wonderfully with charcuterie, roasted chicken, or a simple pizza. It also works great with pasta dishes, particularly those with tomato-based sauces, or grilled vegetables. Whether you're having a casual dinner or just relaxing with friends, this Gamay is the kind of wine that fits any occasion.