St Damien Gigondas VV 2023

80 % Grenache (1948), 20 % Mourvèdre (2010). This wine is sourced from the lower terraced parcels of the Plan de Dieu lieu-dit, in the commune of Violès. The Grenache vines are over 70 years old and come from two sites, one planted on red clay and the other on galets (smooth river-worn pebbles). The younger Mourvèdre vines are planted on sandy soil. The wine is fermented for 30 days in concrete vats, then matured for 10 months in a mix of concrete tanks and large old 50 hL oak foudres. The wine is bottled without fining or filtration.
Very successful in 2023 with extra freshness coming from nearly 50% whole bunch in the ferment. Lifted aromas, very bright and pure showing very good energy and drive with a fresh long vibrant finish. The best rendition of this cuvee to date that we have tasted. An outstanding value and a clear cut above most Cotes du Rhone reds.

‘Darker strawberries, framboise, spring flowers, and some Provençal, peppery nuances emerge from the 2023 Côtes Du Rhône Villages Plan De Dieu Vieilles Vignes, a beautifully textured, medium-bodied 2023 that has ripe tannins and terrific balance.’ (91-93) points, Jeb Dunnuck, April 2025.