2024 "Slow Poke" Gamay Noir

Nearly 100% whole cluster, only the top layer of the fermentation tank was hand-destemmed. This was done because the Gamay was harvested early during a cold spat. With no other red wines fermented yet, I knew this would be a long, slow ferment. Only gentle cap management was employed using our hands during the first part of fermentation. As it neared dryness, the wine was foot tread to release all the juice from the berries. After pressing, it was aged in neutral French oak barrels for 6 months. The stem inclusion is assertive, just as intended, layering structure over dark fruit and spice. This wine was bottled directly from barrel after one racking and left unfined and unfiltered.

Fresh and savory, the nose brings dark fruits, black cherry, and an herbal depth with spicy undertones. Bright, mouthwatering acidity and firm structure take center stage, unfolding into layers of fresh herbs and savory spice balanced by plum and cherry cola. There’s a seriousness here—a tension and grip—that makes this wine more contemplative than crushable.