2006 Gigondas Cuvee Ventabren

In complete contrast to the ’05 Ventabren, the 2006 Moulin de la Gardette Gigondas La Cuvée Ventabren, also a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Cinsault, shows ripe, upfront fruit with sweet aromas of raspberries, spiced meat, flowers, and licorice. Very approachable on the nose, the palate follows suit with medium to full body, a round, soft texture, fresh acidity and a focused finish. It’s very pretty and more enjoyable now than the ’05, but possibly not as long lived. Enjoy these over the next 8 to 10 years.

Deep ruby. Powerful aromas of blackberry and blueberry confit, with a smoky undertone. Broad and fleshy, showing sweet dark berry flavors, supple texture and gently tangy minerality. The smokiness returns on the finish, which leaves a trail of dark berry notes behind. This is already pretty seductive.

Ruby-red. Potent cherry and dark berry scents are complemented by smoky garrigue, anise and cured meat. Dense dark fruit flavors are firmed by youthful tannins, which add grip to the broad, chewy finish. This inky, somewhat brooding wine will almost certainly require some cellar time.