2016 Gigondas

Ripe and fruity, with a focus on its freshness and peppery, spice characteristics, the wine is vigor, bite and juicyness. Santa Duc Aux Lieux-Dits is as the name implies, a multi vineyard bend which is about 75% Grenache, 13% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and 2% Cinsault and is aged in old foudres and large terra cotta jars.

Leading off the wines tasted from bottle, the classic 2016 Gigondas Aux Lieux-Dits offers textbook Gigondas style in its darker fruits, peppery herbs, lavender, and earthy aromas and flavors. With medium to full-bodied richness, beautiful purity, and impeccable balance, it’s a no-brainer purchase that’s going to have 10-15 years of longevity.

The 2016 Gigondas Aux Lieux Dits had been blended at the time of my visit, but not yet bottled. It looks reassuringly close to how I remember it from last year, with pronounced garrigue notes joined by hints of licorice and blackberries. It's full-bodied, creamy textured and supple, with a long, velvety finish.