Viniou Reviews
The 2020 Gigondas "Cuvée Le pas de Montmirail" from the Rhonéa Coopérative is a red wine hailing from the southern Rhône Valley, a prestigious wine-producing area in France. This wine is a blend, typical of the region, predominantly composed of Grenache, with Syrah and Mourvèdre possibly complementing the structure. The Gigondas appellation is renowned for robust and characterful wines that benefit from the Mediterranean climate, which brings hot, dry summers and mild winters. The region's vineyard sits on rugged terrain with rocky soils rich in limestone and clay, imparting distinctive minerality to the wines. This terroir, coupled with traditional winemaking techniques, results in a wine with intense flavours, depth, and great ageing potential.
The Rhône Valley itself boasts a rich viticultural history, stretching back to Roman times. The southern part of the region is known for its influence from the ancient Greeks and Romans, who first established viticulture there. Gigondas in particular, once overshadowed by its more famed neighbour Châteauneuf-du-Pape, has come into its own, offering wines with powerful aromas and a robust palate.
For pairing, this Gigondas wine harmonises beautifully with rich and hearty dishes. Consider roasted lamb shoulder or braised beef with rosemary, which will complement the wine's rich texture and complement its peppery, black fruit notes. Traditional regional specialties such as a Provençal daube or a ratatouille would also make splendid companions to this wine, enhancing its earthy and spicy undertones.
When it comes to serving, the optimal temperature for this robust Rhône red is between 16°C and 18°C. Allow the wine to breathe before tasting; decanting for about an hour will enhance its aromatic potential, allowing you to fully appreciate the layers of flavours and complexity this southern Rhône gem has to offer.
