Dom Santa Duc " La Crau Ouest" 2019 Chateauneuf-Du-Pape, France

Rising as a pillar of quality out of Gigondas' soils is Domaine Santa Duc – an estate with a history that stretches back to 1874. Santa Duc ascended to prominence starting in 1985 as a pioneer of organic viticulture in the region under the care of its indomitable vigneron, Yves Gras. In the 2017 vintage, Gras' son Benjamin assumed the helm at Domaine Santa Duc, making his mark immediately by introducing biodynamic farming techniques and constructing a new winemaking facility on the property. Probably the proudest terroir in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, overlooking the appellation and the Rhône. 100% Grenache. AGE OF THE VINES : 90 years old on average. 18 months in terracotta Amphora.

Tasting Notes

Lastly, the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Crau Ouest (100% Grenache brought up in clay jars) reveals a more translucent ruby hue as well as a spicy nose of wild strawberries, dried flowers, peppery spice, and loamy earth. It's another Pinot Noir look-alike from this estate that delivers beautiful balance, building structure, and a great finish. It has a taut, racy red fruit profile, with notes of damson plum, bitter cherry and red currant, combined with burnt cedar, dried garrigue, brick dust and tobacco. The finish is marked by savory and shiso leaf. A significant difference in day and night time temperatures create tannins of a very high quality, combining finesse and precision. Pushed to the limits by ageing in terracotta amphorae, the wine gains in tension and mellowness.

Pairs With

Braised lamb with herbs de Provence, wild boar with juniper berries, aged Provençal cheeses, grilled portobello mushrooms with garlic

Ratings

96/100 (Critics Score Average), 94/100 Robert Parker, 100 Falstaff points