In the past Stratus Gamays have been a huge punch in the mouth of flavour backed by an overblown alcohol content – not exactly your sit-on-the-patio afternoon sippers, but still very enjoyable wines … but here comes the 2014 which seems to offer up a more restrained and delicate version of Stratus Gamay; alcohol is below 14% which means the fruit is allowed to shine brighter: cherry, white pepper and spice are front and centre and I’m even looking to chill this one for added fruitiness. Let’s hope Stratus continues with this style in future vintages – I’m told this wine is still sitting in bottle as the 2013 is just coming to market – once released later this year the 2014 Gamay should be even closer to perfection. Price: $29.00 – Rating: ****+