Le Claux is sourced from a Grenache-dominant field blend, with vines dating back to 1870. Vinified in whole clusters and matured in 20% new oak, it’s a penetrating, finessed wine that juxtaposes rippling black cherry and boysenberry flavors against veins of crushed salt, licorice and smoke. Chalky tannins and a spray of violet perfume a long finish. It’s stunning in youth but should improve through 2035. Editors' Choice. - 97pts WE
Winemaker Notes
The wine shows intense blackberry and fig fruit with licorice, violets, and charcoal on the finish. It is remarkably fresh and finessed given the sun and warmth of the southern Rhône. The unique micro-climate combined with 60-year-old vines and traditional winemaking make Château de Saint Cosme Gigondas the benchmark wine of the appellation. Grenache is the pale-colored, red-fruited, and potpourri-scented red grape variety of the southern Rhône and can be paired with both rustic and sophisticated dishes. Full-bodied Grenache-based wines are ideal with stews, braises, and grilled meats, while lighter versions can work well with dark fish and tomato-based dishes such as ratatouille.
Professional Ratings
92
Wine Advocate“The 2021 Gigondas is a fine effort, showcasing a bit more spice than usual—allspice, clove, licorice and peppermint—but also vibrant cherry notes. It's full-bodied, velvety and perhaps a bit open-knit, finishing with ample length and complexity.”
92
Vinous“The refined 2021 Gigondas is another classic red from proprietor and winemaker Louis Barruol. Orange blossom, violet, red cherry, raspberry, blueberry and minty aromatics are all nicely put together, complemented by spicy and cedary gradations. Medium to full-bodied, this 2021 red bursts with plenty of energy, framed by ripe tannins. Licorice flavors resonate on the distinctively elegant finish.”
90
Jeb Dunnuck“Leading off the flagship Gigondas from this reference point estate, the 2021 Gigondas has a medium-bodied, soft, supple, nicely balanced, and elegant style as well as notes of ripe red and black fruits, peppery herbs, flowers, and spice, with a kiss of gaminess that emerges with air. I love its balance, it has good mid-palate depth, and it will unquestionably evolve for 15 years if well stored.”
About the Producer
Château de Saint Cosme is the leading estate of Gigondas and produces the appellation’s benchmark wines. Wine has been produced on the site of Saint Cosme since Roman times, evident by the ancient Gallo-Roman vats carved into the limestone below the château. The property has been in the hands of Louis Barruol’s family since 1490. Henri and Claude Barruol took over in 1957 and gradually moved Saint Cosme away from the bulk wine business. Henri was one of the first in the region to work organically beginning in the 1970s.
