Viniou Reviews
Domaine du Cayron’s 2016 Gigondas is a quintessential representation of the Southern Rhône’s prowess. While this wine is generally a blend typical of the region (often dominated by Grenache, with Syrah and Mourvèdre providing structure and spice), the precise blend can vary each year, enhancing its complexity. The 2016 vintage is widely regarded as exceptional, benefiting from a warm, dry growing season that delivered ripe, concentrated fruit with excellent balance. The terroir in Gigondas is defined by its stony, limestone-rich soils and the influence of the Dentelles de Montmirail, whose slopes offer excellent drainage and exposure. Vinification here respects tradition, with hand-harvesting and careful ageing, often in large old foudres, allowing the wine's fruit and terroir to shine without excessive oak influence.
The Gigondas appellation lies in the heart of the southern Rhône Valley, an area renowned for its Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and significant diurnal variation that maintains freshness in the grapes. This region benefits from the protective influence of the Dentelles, which not only mitigate extreme heat but also contribute to the unique minerality and structure found in its wines. Gigondas has a proud heritage, historically producing wines deemed worthy alternatives to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with expressive fruit, aromatic garrigue, and robust yet approachable tannins.
For food pairings, Domaine du Cayron’s Gigondas 2016 excels alongside hearty, flavourful dishes. Classic Provençal fare such as lamb roasted with herbs de Provence, slow-cooked beef daube, or wild game complement the wine’s savoury and peppery notes beautifully. Mediterranean vegetable tian, grilled aubergines or mature cheeses like Comté also work well, highlighting the depth and aromatic complexity of the wine.
To fully appreciate its nuanced bouquet of dark berries, black cherry, earthy spice, and hints of dried herbs, serve this wine at 16-18°C. If possible, decant for an hour to allow the aromas and tannins to open gracefully, rewarding you with a harmonious and memorably elegant Rhône experience.
