Winemaker Notes
Aged for twelve months : 70 % in 1 to 4 years old barrels - 15 % in wooden vats – 15% in concrete vats. The dry summer of 2007 gives us a magnificent intensity and precision in the wine. They remind me of 2005 for their balance and their freshness. They gained plenty of density during the ageing and they offer the wide range of aromas.
"The 2007 Gigondas Tradition possesses extravagant blackberry and cassis fruit, deep, full-bodied flavors, and even more power, structure, and depth than the 2006. With fresh acidity as well as remarkable aromatic penetration, it should provide pleasure for 15 or more years." 91-93 Points
Wine Advocate
February 2009
Professional Ratings
-
Wine Spectator
Ripe and very suave, with gorgeous toast and Black Forest cake aromas leading the way for mulled fig, boysenberry and kirsch flavors. The long, rich finish is well-detailed, with blazing minerality stretching it out. Drink now through 2020.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
The Southern Rhône region of Gigondas extends northwest from the notably jagged wall of mountains called the Dentelles di Montmirail, whose highest point climbs to about 2,600 feet. The region and its wines have much in common with the neighboring Chateauneuf-du-Pape except that the vineyards of Gigondas exist at higher elevation and its soils, comprised mainly of crumbled limestone from the Dentelles, often produce a more dense and robust Grenache-based red wine.
The region has a history of fine winemaking, extending back to Roman times. But by the 20th century, Gigondas was merely lumped into the less distinct zone of Côtes du Rhône Villages. However, it was first among these satellite villages to earn its own appellation, which occurred in 1971.
Gigondas reds must be between 50 to 100% Grenache with Syrah and Mourvèdre comprising the bulk of the remainder of the blend. They tend express rustic flavors and aromas of wild blackberry, raspberry, fig, plum, as well as juniper, dried herbs, anise, smoke and river rock. The best are bold but balanced, and finish with impressively sexy and velvety tannins.
The Gigondas appellation also produces rosé but no white wines.