Damien Bastian Ça Boit Libre Ton Rouge D’Élevage 2023

Damien Bastian farms in Savoie, the alpine French region where vines sit on limestone and glacial soils on slopes above the lakes. Gamay thrives in this cool climate, where the wide diurnal range preserves acidity and keeps the wine light and fresh, here at 11.5 percent alcohol. The vineyards are worked organically, and the limestone subsoil adds a stony freshness. Gamay is naturally low in tannin and high in juicy red fruit, and short ageing in barrel softens the texture while adding a light savoury note rather than heavy oak. The wine is bright ruby, the nose leading with raspberry, cherry and redcurrant lifted by a floral note and a twist of black pepper. The palate is light and crunchy, the acidity vibrant, the tannins gentle, the finish clean and refreshing. This is a red built for early drinking and easy matching. Serve lightly chilled at 13 to 14 degrees. It works with pork, roast poultry, mushroom dishes and charcuterie, and is happy alongside lighter fish such as salmon.