Viniou Reviews
Pierre Amadieu’s “Cuvée Romane Machotte” 2020 from the esteemed Gigondas appellation in the Southern Rhône offers a beautifully expressive illustration of its terroir. Predominantly based on Grenache, supported by Syrah and Mourvèdre, this red wine delivers both depth and vibrancy. The 2020 vintage benefited from a warm and dry growing season which encouraged optimal ripeness, resulting in powerfully aromatic fruit, balanced tannins, and a harmonious freshness. Traditional vinification in stainless steel and concrete respects the purity of the varietals, while subtle oak ageing adds complexity without dominating the character of the wine.
Gigondas sits at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, a dramatic limestone ridge that contributes stony, well-drained soils to the vineyards, fostering concentration and minerality in the wines. The Southern Rhône climate is typically Mediterranean, with generous sunshine, modest rainfall, and beneficial cooling mistral winds that help preserve grape health and aromatic precision. Rooted in a rich winemaking history, Gigondas has forged its reputation as a source of structured yet expressive reds that stand shoulder-to-shoulder with its more famous cousin, Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
This wine pairs effortlessly with robust and flavourful cuisine. Grilled lamb with Provençal herbs, daube de boeuf (a slow-cooked beef stew with olives and orange), or a classic ratatouille will all make wonderful companions. For cheese, a mature Comté or aged goats’ cheese highlights the wine’s spicy undertones. If you wish to explore regional harmony, try it with a dish of wild boar accompanied by roasted root vegetables.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine an hour before serving to allow the aromatics to fully open. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to showcase the wine’s generous fruit, balanced freshness, and subtle earthiness. This Gigondas will continue to evolve gracefully over the next five to eight years, rewarding patience with greater complexity and finesse.
