2016 Gigondas Cuvee Ventabren

From the estate's oldest vines, the 2016 Gigondas Ventabren is a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Cinsault, aged in mix of foudres and demi-muids. Like the Tradition, it's non-destemmed and fermented with indigenous yeasts. It's smoother and suppler, almost plush in texture, with super ripe stone fruit and cherry notes that linger on the long finish, adding hints of dried spices and garrigue. It should drink well for over a decade.

Lurid ruby. Pungent red berry, cherry liqueur, incense and lavender aromas are sharpened by a suggestion of white pepper and a smoky mineral quality. Intense raspberry and bitter cherry flavors show very good clarity and slowly gain sweetness as the wine stretches out. Youthful and seamless in texture, finishing very long and smooth, with a strong, repeating raspberry note and slow-building, harmonious tannins.

70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Cinsault. Concentrated red fruits on the nose – really rich and expressive, finishing with a lovely peppery character and a touch of herbal influence too. A more fired-up version of their tradition Gigondas, but not overcooked at all. (RH)