2023 Famille Perrin Domaine Clos des Tourelles Gigondas, Southern Rhone

A chiseled and bright Gigondas with plenty of drive and ambition, showcasing red cherries, strawberries and baking spices. Medium-bodied, it has fine-grained tannins and plenty of vivid fruit character to the orange peel. It’s juicy and almost fleshy yet has restrained power. Long, intense finish. Drink or hold. 

95 points Kevin Davy for James Suckling, Apr 2025

The Perrin family has been producing some of the Southern Rhône's most admired wines for generations, with Château de Beaucastel at the heart of their reputation. Domaine du Clos des Tourelles is their exceptional estate in Gigondas, centred on a historic walled vineyard within the village itself. This remarkable site produces one of the appellation's most distinctive reds, combining the warmth and generosity of Grenache with the structure and elegance of old vines.

The 2023 is predominantly Grenache, supported by Syrah and a small proportion of other traditional Rhône varieties. The vineyard's limestone and sandy soils contribute freshness and finesse, while careful winemaking preserves the purity of the fruit. It is a beautifully composed Gigondas with the concentration to age gracefully.

Deep ruby red with violet highlights. Ripe blackberry, dark cherry and raspberry mingle with liquorice, wild thyme and cracked pepper. The palate is rich and velvety, with succulent dark fruit, fine tannins and a savoury mineral character. Notes of dried herbs, spice and a little dark chocolate carry through a long, beautifully balanced finish.

Try it with slow roasted lamb shoulder with pomegranate, smoky eggplant with spiced lentils or duck with a cherry and star anise glaze. A particularly lovely wine for a leisurely autumn dinner.

Cellaring: Drink 2027 to 2040+. Its concentration and fine tannic structure should reward patient cellaring.