Wines Gigondas Pierre Amadieu - Grand Romane Vieille Vigne - 2021

Pierre Amadieu’s Gigondas “Cuvée Grand Romane Vieille Vigne” 2021 is a remarkable red wine from the Southern Rhône, crafted from old vines that lend intensity and complexity to the blend. Primarily Grenache, complemented by Syrah and Mourvèdre, this cuvée benefits from the diversity of these noble varieties: Grenache contributes lush red fruit and warmth, Syrah brings structure and peppery spice, while Mourvèdre adds earthy undertones and depth. The 2021 vintage, marked by favourable conditions, delivers a wine both expressive and balanced. The ageing process, typically in a combination of large oak casks and sometimes smaller barriques, enhances the wine’s aromatic richness without overpowering its pure fruit character. The resulting bouquet offers ripe black cherries, plums, garrigue herbs, dried flowers, and a subtle touch of sweet spice, leading into a palate that is both fleshy and elegant, with well-integrated tannins and a lingering, savoury finish.

The Gigondas appellation is situated in the southern reaches of the Rhône Valley, at the foot of the striking Dentelles de Montmirail. This area benefits from a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and significant diurnal temperature shifts, ideal for preserving freshness in the grapes. The soils are predominantly stony, composed of limestone scree and red clay, which provide excellent drainage and contribute to the powerful structure and mineral complexity of the wines. Historically, Gigondas has evolved from a rustic neighbour of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to a star in its own right, celebrated for its robust yet refined reds that age gracefully.

For food pairings, this Gigondas shines alongside hearty Provençal cuisine. Try it with herb-crusted roast lamb, slow-cooked beef daube, or wild mushroom risotto. Local dishes like ratatouille or duck with olives will highlight the wine’s garrigue and spice notes, while stronger cheeses such as aged Comté or Roquefort make for excellent partners.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly cool but never cold, ideally at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before serving will allow the aromas to open up beautifully, revealing all the depth and nuance that Pierre Amadieu’s old vines have to offer.