Gigondas has been renowned for the quality of its wines since Roman times although it was not really until Gigondas was classified as a Côtes du Rhône Villages in 1966 that it really began to realise its potential.  It achieved AC status in 1971 and today produces some of the finest, most underrated and underpriced wines in the Rhône valley; although for the last two of these, probably not for long.

Gigondas's 1200ha of rugged vineyards are located east of Châteauneuf-du-Pape below the famous rocks, Dentelles de Montmirail. Gigondas produces sumptuous, plummy reds with a good structure and a sprinkle of pepper. It is similar to - if a touch less slick than - good Châteauneuf-du-Pape which, at its best, it can challenge and even surpass. It is made with a maximum of 80% Grenache combined with at least 15% Syrah and/or Mourvèdre; the rest can be made of any of the varieties authorized for Côtes du Rhône, apart from Carignan. The wines can normally be broached after 2-3 years while the best repay ageing for 10 years or more. The region also produces dry, Grenache-dominated rosés which are good but can sometimes lack a little vitality.

Recommended Producer: La Bastide St Vincent.