Gigondas AOC 2021

The esteemed Adrien Roustan proudly enjoys his property in Gigondas, cleverly spread over five parcels on the Grand Montmirail. These climb an altitude of 400 to 520 metres into the landscape, beneath a fascinating assemblage of red marl and gradually increasing limestone the higher you go. Its vineyards, fertile since 1975, are home to a carefully selected blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Cinsault. After destemming and crushing, the grapes were fermented quickly, and the wine was then aged in concrete.

The wine's inviting colour is a medium purple red that gains intensity as it swirls in the glass. The nose is seized by a surprisingly dark bouquet in which one might initially suspect a greater presence of Syrah. Plums, meat, a touch of tar and olive tapenade are the first to present themselves, followed by dark raspberries, herbs and the characteristic liquorice aroma of Grenache. Nuances of undergrowth and foliage round off the fragrance.

The first sip surprises with a juicy, dark berry explosion accompanied by silky tannins. Again, the influence of the Syrah is unmistakable. The vibrant energy that pervades this glass of wine is fascinating. The minerality brings a cooling note that contrasts perfectly with the warming berry note. It is a sensual expression of the terroir, the essence of the garrigue and the herbs that blend harmoniously with the juicy fruit and fine texture of the wine.

Recommended dishes to accompany this exceptional wine could be a rustic peasant bread with black, green and tomato tapenade. For meat lovers, a leg of hare slowly braised in a red wine cream sauce could bring out the dark berry flavour of the wine. And for the traditional connoisseur, try the "Sou Fassum" - cabbage stuffed with tomatoes, sausage and smoked bacon.