Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Spectator
This rich red displays lovely detail, as chestnut, tobacco and sage notes are inlaid in the core of dark plum, braised fig and macerated blackberry fruit. The long, smoldering finish has superb acidity, with mouthwatering mesquite and licorice snap notes that really stretch it out. Drink now through 2022. 575 cases made.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
From yellow clay and Jurassic limestone, the 2009 Gigondas Le Claux is aged in the same manner as the Hominis Fides. This deep ruby/purple-tinged 2009 possesses excellent concentration, but its astringency and elevated tannins may present a problem with the wine’s equilibrium in 4-5 years. I will have a better view of this wine once it is in bottle.
Barrel Sample: 88-90+ Points
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.