2021 Gigondas

The refined 2021 Gigondas is another classic red from proprietor and winemaker Louis Barruol. Orange blossom, violet, red cherry, raspberry, blueberry and minty aromatics are all nicely put together, complemented by spicy and cedary gradations. Medium to full-bodied, this 2021 red bursts with plenty of energy, framed by ripe tannins. Licorice flavors resonate on the distinctively elegant finish.

Leading off the flagship Gigondas from this reference point estate, the 2021 Gigondas has a medium-bodied, soft, supple, nicely balanced, and elegant style as well as notes of ripe red and black fruits, peppery herbs, flowers, and spice, with a kiss of gaminess that emerges with air. I love its balance, it has good mid-palate depth, and it will unquestionably evolve for 15 years if well stored. Unquestionably one of the top estates in the Southern Rhône (not just Gigondas), Château de Saint Cosme is run by the incredibly talented and driven Louis Barruol. There are a number of smaller cuvées, all of which are impeccably made, but clearly, the focus is on the Gigondas releases, which are not destemmed and are brought up in larger barrels. The Classic Gigondas is always roughly 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and the rest Mourvèdre and Cinsault, and the three single vineyards are all 100% Grenache. Readers can expect to see the current Côtes Du Rhône whites (Hominis Fides Blanc and Le Poste Blanc) released under the Gigondas appellation starting in 2023.

Deep magenta. High-toned cherry and blackberry aromas show very good clarity with black pepper and smoky mineral accents. Shows firm tension and a spicy cut to its gently sweet red and dark berry, bitter chocolate and succulent herb flavors. Youthfully gripping tannins lend framework to a long, smoky finish that echoes the spice and floral notes. This is textbook Gigondas, raised in a combination of one-third concrete tanks and two-thirds large oak barrels, 20% of those new.