Recent studies have shown that it is the same as the vine known in Sardinia as Cannonau, in Veneto as Tai Rosso, in France as Grenache, and in Spain as Garnacha. It is believed, although there is no proof, that on its journey from the Greek peninsula to the rest of Europe it found the Umbrian climate to be particularly hospitable.

This varietal is grown almost exclusively in the large area around Lake Trasimeno, in the province of Perugia. When vinified as a pure varietal, Gamay yields a full-bodied wine with an intense ruby-red colour and a fresh, rather fruity aroma.