2023 Saint Damien Gigondas Clovis Saurel, Rhône Valley

All Grenache, the 2023 Gigondas Clovis Saurel is a juicy, pure, medium to full-bodied effort revealing tons of wild strawberry and raspberry fruit, some peppery garrigue, white pepper, and crushed stone nuances, a focused, elegant mouthfeel, and beautiful length.

93-95 points Jeb Dunnuck, May 2024

Named in honour of Clovis Saurel, an important figure in the estate's history, this Gigondas comes from one of the Southern Rhône's most admired family domaines. Domaine Saint Damien has been in the Saurel family for generations, but it was Joël Saurel who elevated the estate to cult status through meticulous vineyard work and an unwavering focus on old vine Grenache. Today, the family continues to produce some of Gigondas' most sought after wines, celebrated for their authenticity, depth and remarkable value when compared with many of their Châteauneuf du Pape neighbours.

The vineyards sit on the rugged slopes beneath the Dentelles de Montmirail, where limestone rich soils, cooling mountain influences and old vines combine to create wines of power and freshness. The Clovis Saurel cuvée is typically built around Grenache with supporting Rhône varieties adding complexity and structure. The 2023 vintage has produced wines of purity, concentration and energy, capturing the warmth of the Southern Rhône while retaining excellent balance.

Deep ruby crimson in colour, the nose is immediately captivating with aromas of black cherry, ripe raspberry and wild blackberry layered with lavender, thyme and rosemary from the surrounding garrigue. Notes of liquorice, cracked pepper, olive tapenade and warm spices emerge with air, adding further complexity. The palate is generous and richly textured, delivering waves of dark berries, plum and spice supported by fine, velvety tannins. Despite its concentration, there is a freshness and mineral lift that keeps everything beautifully poised. The finish is long and savoury, carrying echoes of wild herbs, dark fruit and spice.

Perfect alongside slow roasted lamb shoulder with rosemary, Provençal beef stew, duck confit or a roasted vegetable and lentil casserole scented with Mediterranean herbs. While already delicious in its youth, the wine has the structure and concentration to reward cellaring for 10 to 15 years. Few wines capture the soul of Gigondas quite so effortlessly, combining generosity, complexity and a genuine sense of place in every bottle.

Drink from now through 2038.