Viniou Reviews
Château La Croix des Pins’ Cuvée Le Parpaillon 2023 from the Gigondas AOC in the southern Rhône Valley is a vibrant and expressive red wine. Typically, Gigondas reds are crafted predominantly from Grenache, supported by Syrah and Mourvèdre, though precise proportions can vary from estate to estate. The 2023 vintage promises freshness and fruit purity due to cooler nights and a relatively mild season, allowing grapes to ripen without excessive heat stress. The terroir here is marked by limestone scree on the Dentelles de Montmirail slopes, lending both structure and minerality, while traditional vinification in large vats with gentle extraction preserves the natural fruit character and aromatic richness.
The southern Rhône region, particularly around Gigondas, benefits from a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and the cleansing influence of the mistral wind. The rugged, rocky soils ensure excellent drainage, forcing the vines to dig deep and resulting in concentrated, complex fruit. Historically, Gigondas was overshadowed by its neighbour Châteauneuf-du-Pape, but in recent decades it has gained recognition for producing robust, characterful reds with an alluring balance of ripe fruit, spice, and subtle earthiness.
This wine’s full-bodied profile and aromatic complexity make it an ideal companion for rich and flavourful dishes. Classic pairings include Provençal lamb daube, herbed roast lamb, or beef grilled with thyme and rosemary. More adventurous pairings might feature gamey meats such as venison or wild boar, or even a mushroom risotto finished with truffle oil. For a regional touch, try pairing it with ratatouille or a fragrant tapenade, both of which harmonise well with the pepper and garrigue notes found in the wine.
To enjoy the full spectrum of aromas and flavours, serve Cuvée Le Parpaillon at around 16-18°C, ideally decanted for about an hour to allow it to open up. This will reveal its layers of ripe berry fruit, savoury spices, and the distinctive mineral backbone imparted by the Gigondas terroir.
