Louis Terral
(Bugey, France)
Louis Terral, after working for a couple of legends of the Beaujolais—Julie Balagny and Michel Guignier—relocated to the quiet Alpine region of Bugey, a place of increasing interest in the world of natural wine. Most likely influenced by his time in the Beaujolais, Terral is working mostly with Gamay, a grape that does surprisingly well in the area. I’ve picked a couple of selections to offer, and I have to say that I am completely surprised by how impassioned and pure these wines taste. Gamay raised on limestone terroir that absolutely do not belie Terral’s Beaujolais influence, but at the same time are so of their alpine setting. Crystalline and spring water like with fresh fruit and vegetal finish, there is a sense of zen and flow in the glass, and an alluring complexity to both of these bottles that is sure to please both freaks and somms, alike.
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Lucie 2019
Gamay VV
$35
Old vine Gamay that feels both nostalgic and fresh—one feels the cold climate and then gets hit with fruit on the palate, followed by a complex vegetal finish.
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Magdalena 2020
Gamay blanc de noir pet nat
$35
A semi-sparkling white wine made of Gamay that reminds me of an off-dry Chenin from the Anjou. Complex with acid up top, and an umami base—this is quintessential cheese wine, before or after a meal.

Lucie 2019
Gamay VV
$35
Old vine Gamay that feels both nostalgic and fresh—one feels the cold climate and then gets hit with fruit on the palate, followed by a complex vegetal finish.

Magdalena 2020
Gamay blanc de noir pet nat
$35
A semi-sparkling white wine made of Gamay that reminds me of an off-dry Chenin from the Anjou. Complex with acid up top, and an umami base—this is quintessential cheese wine, before or after a meal.