2021 Santa Duc Les Hautes Garrigues Gigondas, Southern Rhone

Santa Duc Les Hautes Garrigues Gigondas is a powerful and refined red wine that embodies the essence of the Southern Rhône. Crafted by Domaine Santa Duc, a family-owned estate known for its organic and biodynamic practices, this flagship wine is sourced from the estate's most prized vineyard, Les Hautes Garrigues. Located on the sun-drenched terraces of Gigondas, the vineyard features old vines of Grenache and Mourvèdre rooted in stony clay-limestone soils, which contribute to the wine’s exceptional concentration, complexity, and minerality. With its meticulous winemaking and dedication to expressing terroir, this wine is a true benchmark for Gigondas.

On the palate, Santa Duc Les Hautes Garrigues Gigondas offers an intense and layered profile. Ripe blackberries, black cherries, and plums dominate, accompanied by savory notes of black olive, leather, and garrigue herbs such as thyme and rosemary. Subtle spices, including black pepper and clove, emerge from aging in large oak foudres, adding depth and nuance. The wine’s robust tannins provide structure and power, while a fresh, balancing acidity lifts the fruit, leading to a long and complex finish with lingering hints of dark chocolate, earth, and crushed stone.

This Gigondas is a superb partner for hearty dishes and Mediterranean cuisine. It pairs beautifully with slow-cooked lamb, beef short ribs, or venison stew. Its herbal and earthy complexity also complements roasted root vegetables, ratatouille, and dishes featuring wild mushrooms or truffles. While approachable with decanting, Les Hautes Garrigues has exceptional aging potential, evolving over 15–20 years to reveal even greater depth and harmony.