FROM NOVEMBER 2024 BOTTLE CLUB NOTES:
In a world where Gamay is often overshadowed by Pinot Noir and Cabernet, Seabold Cellars’ Adroit Gamay is a great reminder of what this grape can do in the right hands and with the right soil. Hailing from the humble San Benito County, this wine is a fresh take on California’s relationship with Gamay, offering an unfiltered view of its vibrant character and mineral-laden roots.
The vineyards of San Benito, nestled inland between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the rolling Salinas Valley, are often underestimated. Here, sheltered from the coastal fog and kept cool by mountain breezes, the vines dig deep into the limestone-rich soils that define the region. Seabold Cellars, under the steady hand of winemaker and Master Sommelier Chris Miller, embraces this terroir with minimal intervention. Miller’s approach is deliberate, crafted with the intention of highlighting Gamay’s natural acidity, lightness, and structure without overpowering it with oak or heavy extraction.
Adroit’s 2020 Gamay begins with a native yeast fermentation that unfolds slowly, drawing out nuanced flavors and aromatics. The wine then rests in neutral oak for a few months, preserving the fresh, lively character of the grape while adding a subtle texture that enhances, rather than obscures, its essence. Each sip is a reflection of San Benito’s cool climate and limestone soils, bottled unfined and unfiltered to let Gamay shine.
In the glass, note how the captivating ruby hue hints at the vibrant fruit within. Aromas of wild strawberries, fresh violets, and a touch of white pepper lift from the glass, with an earthy backbone of damp forest floor and crushed granite. On the palate, it’s lithe and refreshing, with flavors of red cherry, pomegranate, and a whisper of dried herbs, and a clean, crisp finish with just enough structure to give it depth without weighing it down.
Whether you’re sipping this wine on a cool autumn evening or pairing it with a spread of charcuterie, Adroit Gamay is a versatile gem. Try it alongside roasted turkey breast in rustic mushroom gravy, or even a classic Niçoise salad. Seabold’s Adroit Gamay is a tribute to Gamay’s unique place in California’s wine history and a must-try for those seeking something beautifully off the beaten path. —Cara Patricia
