A variety you don’t see often in Napa, the 2017 Gamay Noir is nevertheless terrific and would stand beside any number of top Pinot Noirs, both from France and California. Lots of cherry and strawberry fruits, some integrated stems, and plenty of spice all emerge from the glass, and it’s medium-bodied, beautifully balanced, and elegant on the palate. Count me impressed. This wine was aged a year in 30% new barrels, and I suspect it will evolve for at least 4-6 years.

This is the inaugural release by Doug Shafer and Winemaker Elias Fernandez. Fruity with a lightness of spice and oak, it offers smooth, rounded tannins and fresh acidity, which underscore the pomegranate and strawberry flavors.

Pure-tasting, minerally and well-structured, with good cut to the dark currant, spiced cherry and wild berry flavors. The focused finish lingers, showing notes of hot stone and graphite on the finish. Drink now through 2024. 120 cases made. — KM

This Gamay from the Carneros region of Napa Valley shows a ruddy medium-hued garnet color with a medium body. The aroma displays balsamic notes with baking spices and black cherry characteristics. The use of oak barrels is evident on entry as the cedar and vanilla comes through strongly over the subtle fruit and spice. Anyone interested in the obscure domestic varietals owes it to themselves to get their hands on this one. Certainly a new-world interpretation of Beaujolais.