Product Description
A magical fusion of Beaujolais influence and Bannockburn’s distinctive terroir, the 2024 Bannockburn Gamay marks a milestone in the estate’s journey with this variety. After six years of meticulous experimentation, this is the third release of Bannockburn’s Beaujolais-inspired Gamay, and the first year of sufficient yields to share it with a broader audience. Handcrafted by Matt Holmes and his team, the Gamay fruit is grown on a 1.4-acre plot nestled beneath the Olive Tree Hill Pinot Noir vines, with the terroir showcasing limestone and clay subsoils—an ideal home for this vibrant variety. With the warm, sun-drenched afternoons and cool nights, the conditions are perfect for producing a wine that effortlessly combines mouthwatering juiciness with creamy texture.
The fruit is handpicked and undergoes spontaneous fermentation with whole-bunch carbonic maceration, a technique that preserves the freshness and vibrancy of the fruit. After eight days, the stems are removed, and the wine continues fermentation in a single-use barrique for 10 months, allowing it to rest and develop complexity before bottling. The result is a wine that expresses both lively fruit character and the distinct savoury edge Bannockburn is known for. This is a small-production wine, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience this exceptional release.
Ideal with charcuterie, grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or fresh seafood dishes. Also pairs beautifully with soft cheeses like brie or camembert.
Maker:
Bannockburn Vineyards, founded by Stuart Hooper in 1974, has earned a reputation as one of the Barossa Valley’s most respected estates. With a vision to create exceptional quality wines, Stuart’s journey began with the planting of Shiraz vines in the region’s unique terroir of volcanic soil and ancient sea beds. Over the years, Bannockburn’s growth continued with the addition of new vineyards and varieties, leading to the estate’s current focus on organic farming and sustainable viticulture. Matt Holmes, who joined as the winemaker in 2015, has continued the legacy with a fresh perspective, placing emphasis on minimal intervention winemaking. Under Matt’s direction, Bannockburn has evolved stylistically, moving towards a racier, more precise expression of the vineyard’s character while maintaining its core focus on quality, balance, and expression of terroir. Today, Bannockburn Vineyards is known for its distinct wines, especially its iconic Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, crafted from some of the oldest vines in the Geelong region.
Philosophy:
At Bannockburn, the philosophy is centred on the belief that great wines are a reflection of both the land and the winemaker’s careful stewardship. The estate’s organic practices ensure that each vine is nurtured in a way that respects the environment, with composting, straw mulching, and cover crops used to maintain soil health and avoid herbicide use. This commitment to organic farming allows the vineyard to flourish naturally, producing grapes of exceptional quality and distinct character. The focus on low-yielding, close-planted vines, particularly in their historic sites like the Serré and Olive Tree Hill vineyards, results in wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region—flavours are concentrated and textures are complex. In the winery, minimal intervention practices are followed, with wild yeast fermentations and low additions, allowing the true expression of the site to shine through. This careful, patient approach to both viticulture and winemaking results in wines that embody integrity, balance, and the unmistakable essence of Bannockburn.
Tasting Notes
NOSE – Aromatic & Inviting
Bouquet of blue fruit, pink peppercorn spice, and floral notes. A delicate herbal lift intertwines with the fresh vibrancy, promising a wine full of complexity and allure.
PALATE – Juicy & Creamy
Full of mouthwatering, juicy fruit, balanced by a creamy texture. Blueberries, raspberries, and a touch of spice combine seamlessly with a slight earthy character, creating a delightful and inviting mouthfeel.
FINISH – Fresh & Balanced
Long and fresh, with the herbal and floral nuances lingering delicately, leaving a clean and satisfying aftertaste. The wine’s vibrant acidity and silky texture make it highly drinkable, with the promise of further development.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Gamay
Country - Australia
Region - Geelong, Victoria
Vintage - 2024
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13%
