2017 Domaine Saint-Damien Gigondas La Louisiane Vieilles Vignes
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Tasting notes
Limpid violet. A highly perfumed bouquet evokes black raspberry and cherry preserves, incense, exotic spices and smoky minerals. Sweet, seamless and energetic on the palate, showing impressive depth as well as sharp delineation to its intense red and dark berry, spicecake and lavender pastille flavors. Finishes smooth, sappy and extremely long, with repeating florality and deftly interwoven tannins that add framework and gentle closing grip.
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
I think the standout in the 2017 is the 2017 Gigondas La Louisiane, a blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah from a single lieu-dit near the domaine, which is located further down on the plateau. Incredible notes of blackcurrants, smoked herbs, spring flowers, and peppery meat notes emerge from this full-bodied beauty that has terrific concentration, sweet tannins, no hard edges, and a blockbuster finish. It actually reminds me of the 2007 yet has more structure and focus. It's an incredible bottle of wine that will drink well for 20+ years.
Bottled in May, the 2017 Gigondas La Louisiane looks every bit as good as expected. Licorice, dark cherries and plums feature on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is silky and rich, just a wonderful balance of power and elegance. It should drink well soon after release and for at least decade thereafter.
3% Cinsault, 80% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre, 2% Syrah. Cask sample. Tasted blind. Syrupy, overripe fruit on the nose, but the palate has a stronger savoury finish. Very fine tannins, pretty hot alcohol. All quite austere and heavy-going. (RH)