Domaine Santa Duc Gigondas Aux Lieux-Dits 2022

Domaine Santa Duc works in AOC Gigondas, in the southern Rhône, drawing this wine from grapes grown across eight different lieux-dits, the named plots whose distinct geology and history give the cuvee its breadth. The blend is led by Grenache, with Mourvèdre, Syrah and Cinsault, the classic southern Rhône grapes grown on the limestone scree and clay at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail. The warm Mediterranean climate ripens the Grenache fully while the altitude of the slopes and the cooling mistral hold freshness. Farmed organically and made as a natural wine, it ages eighteen months in amphora and barrel. The amphora gives slow oxygen exchange without oak flavour, keeping the fruit pure, while the barrel rounds the tannin, so the wine shows both lift and structure. The colour is deep red. The nose carries ripe plum, red berries and cherry over garrigue herbs, black pepper and liquorice. The palate is full and warm at fourteen and a half percent, with firm tannin, an earthy depth and a savoury, herbal finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees and decant ahead. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef and mushroom dishes.