Alcohol: 12.5%
Grape(s): 100% Gamay
Location: Pays Nantais, Loire Valley, France (Vin de France)
Tasting Notes: Bright ruby red in color with beautiful violet reflections, this lively and expressive Loire Valley Gamay offers inviting aromas of fresh raspberries, juicy red cherries, wild strawberries, and delicate violets, complemented by subtle notes of crushed herbs, white pepper, and earthy minerality. On the palate, it is light to medium-bodied, vibrant, and wonderfully refreshing, revealing layers of crunchy red berries, tart cherry, and a touch of savory spice. Silky tannins and bright acidity create a beautifully balanced texture, while a distinctive mineral character adds freshness and complexity. The finish is clean, juicy, and pleasantly savory, making this an exceptionally charming and easy-drinking French red.
Notes: Crafted exclusively from Gamay in the Pays Nantais, near the mouth of the Loire River, this vibrant Vin de France reflects the fresh, mineral-driven character of the region's Atlantic-influenced vineyards. The Delaunay family farms its estate organically, working with vines ranging from young plantings to parcels approximately 90 years old. Antoine Delaunay favors natural winemaking practices, allowing fermentation to occur spontaneously with indigenous yeasts and using minimal sulfur, with a small addition before bottling. This gentle approach preserves the purity and lively expression of the fruit while highlighting the wine's delicate savory and mineral qualities. Fresh, supple, and bursting with character, Ezekiel is a delightful alternative to traditional Beaujolais and is particularly enjoyable served slightly chilled.
Food Pairing: An excellent companion to charcuterie boards, pâté, saucisson sec, roasted chicken, grilled pork tenderloin, and herb-roasted turkey. Its lively acidity and delicate tannins also pair beautifully with mushroom risotto, grilled salmon, roasted vegetables, and casual French bistro dishes. For cheese lovers, enjoy with Brie, Camembert, young Comté, Gruyère, or fresh goat cheese. A wonderfully versatile red for picnics, outdoor entertaining, casual dinners, and relaxed gatherings. Serve slightly chilled, around 55°F–60°F (13°C–16°C), to bring out its vibrant fruit and refreshing character.
Winery Story: Delaunay Vignerons is a family-owned estate located in Vertou, just southeast of Nantes, in the heart of the historic Muscadet region of the Loire Valley. The family's connection to the land spans four generations, with Antoine Delaunay continuing a winemaking tradition deeply rooted in the region's agricultural heritage. Antoine returned to the family estate in 2015 and joined forces with his father, Philippe, in 2016, bringing a renewed focus on organic viticulture, careful vineyard selection, and natural winemaking. The estate's vineyards lie within the celebrated Château-Thébaud cru area, where the Atlantic climate and distinctive soils contribute freshness, tension, and mineral complexity to the wines. Although best known for its outstanding Melon de Bourgogne whites, the family also produces small quantities of expressive red wines that showcase the Loire Valley's remarkable diversity. Ezekiel embodies Antoine's philosophy of crafting authentic, vibrant, terroir-driven wines with minimal intervention, generous personality, and exceptional drinkability.
