Gamay vs Cinsault
Gamay
Light body, fresh acidity, and low tannin in classic Beaujolais styles.
- Fresh red berry
- Low tannin
- Light body
Recognize it
Light body and low tannin with bright acidity. Red cherry, raspberry and violet are common. Banana and bubblegum, when present, are more associated with carbonic or semi-carbonic winemaking than with the grape itself.
Cinsault
A pale, low-tannin red grape known for red berries and floral notes, common in southern French rosé and red blends.
- Pale color
- Low tannin
- Red berry
Recognize it
Pale color with soft tannin and a light to medium body. Strawberry and raspberry come first, with a floral lift, and the wine feels gentle rather than grippy.
How they compare
- SimilarLight body, red berries and soft tannin.
- DifferenceGamay usually has higher acidity and more tart red fruit.