2016 Bow & Arrow, Gamay, Willamette Valley, Oregon.
Scott Frank’s Bow & Arrow Gamay is one of the best new world versions I’ve tried and I love the Loire inspiration of his wines in general, these are lively and energy filled offerings that include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir(s), Cabernet Franc, Melon (de Bourgogne), this Gamay and the Rhinestones, a wonderful blend of Gamay and Pinot Noir, most from Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Frank’s Portland based winery is without a question is a must try Oregon label, and especially try his Gamay stuff, with this 2016 he has hit a new level of quality and detail, it would be easy to believe this was a Cru Beaujolais with it’s Brouilly like intensity and earthy layered fruit and acidity that kicks in on the palate, and even though he is more Loire influenced, this catches your attention and put in a stellar performance when put in a lineup that included Dutraive’s old vine Fleurie! For the price, the quality is remarkable, with some of the other Oregon Gamay Noir(s) being almost twice the price, it’s pretty electric magenta/purple color thrills in the glass along with it’s earthy tones and floral/fruity essences filling the bouquet before a sharply focused palate of blackberry, blueberry, tart plum and subtle jolly rancher blue raspberry, along with hints of leather, anise, peppery cinnamon and walnut. The body is lithe and the Bow & Arrow Gamay feels taught and crisp, but ripe tannins and texture come out with air making for impressive impact, this is a joyous semi carbonic (traditional method) example and holds it’s own in mineral driven varietal purity, plus it rocks with food, pulling extra depth, earthy charm and complexity when it counts, I love this vintage!
($22 Est.) 93 Points, grapelive
