Jean-Francois Merieau, ‘ Le Bois Jacou’, Loire Valley, France

Now that Beaujolais is a requirement on every wine list in the country, it ‘s thrilling times talking about the Loire’s take on this variety. Jean-François makes an excellent example of Touraine Gamay, more nervy, high-pitched and mineral than Beaujolais but so satisfying to drink slightly chilled while arguing about the best way to grill a steak. Hand harvested, destemmed, natural yeasts, semi-carbonic fermentation in tank.