Gigondas AOC
Gigondas AOC is a renowned wine region in France, known for its unique terroir and exceptional wines.
Located in the Southern area of the Rhone Valley, Gigondas was the first Côtes du Rhône Villages appellation wine to be awarded Cru status, in 1971, when it became a highly respected AOC.
Leading the sit-down Masterclass was Pascaline Lepeltier, a prominent, highly credentialed sommelier and expert in the field.
Terroir and Geography
Ms. Lepeltier began by speaking extensively about the terroir and Geography that makes this region so special.
Famous Wine Region
She called special attention to the two key pictures of the presentation: The image above showing limestone soil, and below it, the postcard-picture image of the village.
Ms. Lepeltier stated that limestone plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of the wine, especially when combined with clay.
Of surprising importance, in addition to the climate and soil, is that the Gigondas AOC is home to a diverse ecosystem with over 200 animal species and 537 vegetal species.
Vintage and Tasting
The 2016 vintage in Gigondas is considered fantastic, characterized by a mild winter, dry cool spring, warm summer, and gentle rains.
Generally, the vintage had pronounced aromatic intensity, superb concentration, perfect balance, and good structure thanks to the perfectly ripe tannins, which we will be examining through the following wines:
Though Grenache must be at least sixty-percent of red blends, popular blending grapes include Syrah, Mourvèdre and increasingly Cinsault.
Vintage 2016 Wines Tasted during the Masterclass included:
Domaine la Bouissière Gigondas Tradition 2016
Domaine du Cayron Gigondas 2016
Moulin de la Gardette Cuvée Ventabren 2016
Domaine Gour de Chaulé Tradition 2016
Saint Cosme Gigondas 2016
Santa Duc Les Hautes Garrigues 2016
It was especially interesting to taste the Santa Duc Les Hautes Garrigues, as the wine was produced by the family of my classmate in my OIVMSc program, Manon Gras.
Thank you Colangelo and Partners for making this possible.
