2021 Gigondas

The 2021 Gigondas isn't going to match the 2020, but it's nevertheless a beautiful, elegant wine. Sporting a translucent ruby hue as well as notes of kirsch liqueur, dried flowers, and Provençal spice, this medium-bodied Gigondas has wonderful balance, silky tannins, and a great finish. It's going to age gracefully on its balance and purity.

Deep, brilliant ruby-red. Finely detailed, mineral- and spice-accented raspberry, cherry and floral scents are complicated by botanical herb and white pepper notes. Appealingly sweet and energetic on the palate, its intense red fruit, lavender and spicecake flavors pick up smokiness on the back half. Silky, well-knit tannins frame a smooth, impressively long finish that leaves behind red berry liqueur and floral notes.

70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre. Grenache matured in old oak foudres from 35 to 130 hl and the Syrah in barriques and demi-muids. Cask sample. Tasted blind. Primary nose, red fruits, spice and a little reductive at the moment. A bright mid palate with lots of good acidity, the tannins are well judged but very present at the moment. A nice balance of savoury and sweet ripe red fruits. The finish is long and fresh. (AC)