2021 Gigondas Cuvee Ventabren

The 2021 Gigondas La Cuvée Ventabren is laced with delicate orange peel, raspberry, strawberry and red cherry fruit. Hints of dried herbs and licorice add more contrast. Elegant and inviting, a gently tannic structure and sufficient acidity hold everything together. This 2021 is a fine Gigondas worth seeking out.

The ruby-hued 2021 Gigondas Ventabren checks in as a classic blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and the rest Cinsault that was raised all in older barrels. It has a terrific perfume of red plums, strawberries, menthol, and exotic flowers. This carries to a medium-bodied, elegant 2021 offering fine tannins, a forward, incredibly satisfying, charming style, and outstanding length on the finish. The floral, exotic edge here actually has a touch of Rayas-like character, and this is impressive. I'd be a buyer. Another classic, incredibly traditional estate in Gigondas, Moulin de la Gardette is a family run estate that covers a tiny 10 hectares of vines, most on higher elevation, more north-facing parcels. The farming is all organic (since 2000), and this estate consistently producers character-filled, textbook Gigondas.

Glistening ruby-red. Vibrant cherry, raspberry and lavender scents show clarity and a spicy white pepper touch. Sweet and lively on the palate, offering juicy red fruit and spicecake flavors and a deeper suggestion of candied licorice. Closes sappy and impressively long, with resonating spiciness and gentle tannins that slowly build.