2016 Failla Gamay

Here’s a variety you don’t see often, but the 2016 Gamay Bjornson Vineyard is certainly worth seeking out. Reminding me of a Cotes du Rhône release from a Côte-Rôtie producer, it offers lots of ripe plum, violets, and peppery spice, with medium body and a layered, sweetly fruited, undeniably delicious personality. Drink it over the coming 4-5 years. Readers looking for a serious lineup of single vineyard Pinot Noirs and Chardonnay that have a distinctly Burgundian vibe need to check out these releases from Ehren Jordan and Savanna Wright. Failla owns prime terroirs on the Sonoma Coast, as well as has access to some of the best vineyards in the region. While these aren’t for those craving big, powerful wines, they have plenty of intensity as well as singular profiles. In addition to the Sonoma releases, Jordan’s Oregon releases and a few Rhône variety wines are also included in this report.