2007 Gigondas

(63% grenache, 20% syrah and 17% mourvedre) Deep, bright ruby. Bright aromas of cherry and blackberry, with notes of white pepper and underbrush coming up with air. Lively, sharply focused red fruit flavors give way to bitter cherry in the middle palate, with dusty tannins providing structural support. The peppery note lingers on the long, sappy finish, which echoes the cherry note.

Very dark crimson. Light, very 'bloody' and fully developed nose. Light tannins. Easy, open stuff that seems just a bit too ripe to me? Louis Barruol is adamant that 2005 is a better vintage than 2007 and will last much longer. (JR)

The 2007 Gigondas possesses a dense purple color in addition to a stunning bouquet of charcoal, blueberry and blackberry liqueur, acacia flowers, and a hint of chalk. Full-bodied with terrific fruit intensity, a layered texture, gorgeous freshness, and acids that provide a well-defined personality to this blockbuster Gigondas. Despite its size, substance, and depth, the overall impression is one of sublime elegance and purity. Enjoy it over the next 10-12 years. When I first met Louis Barruol a number of years ago, it was apparent that he had no shortage of competence, passion, or talent, so it is extremely satisfying to write the following reviews, which confirm the young Barruol as one of the superstars of the Rhone Valley. Even his work with what are considered to be “minor” wines from the Cotes du Rhone and his non-vintage solera system Little James is nothing short of exceptional. He has also performed well above expectations in the more challenging vintage of 2008, generally a disappointing year in Gigondas, but not in these cellars. Barruol’s two cuvees of 2008 white wines are not to be missed (2008 is a much better vintage for white grapes than it was for reds). Barruol was not discouraged from making his four cuvees of Gigondas in 2008. As he said, it was a question of picking very late, doing a severe culling in the vineyard, and later, another triage once the grapes came into the winery. His success is evident with the following four wines, all sold under the Chateau Saint-Cosme label. While Barruol decided not to make a Valbelle in 2008, three single vineyard offerings were produced. Louis Barruol and I agree that his finest wines to date are his five cuvees of 2007 Gigondas. Importers: Vintage ‘59, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 966-9218 and Stacole Fine Wines, 1003 Clint Moore Rd., Boca Raton, FL 33487 ph: 561-998-0029, fax: 561-998-0025