2022 Gigondas Domaine Grand Romane

This historic Gigondas producer is nearing their 100th anniversary, with the winery founded back in 1929, when Pierre Amadieu made the decision to bottle his Gigondas, becoming one of the first to feature the appellation's name on his labels. By 2024, the Amadieu family collectively owns 130 hectares of certified organic vineyards in Gigondas, representing a whopping 11% of the entire appellation. During my visit with Jean-Marie Amadieu, I learned that recently, one family member decided to manage his own 15-hectare operation, which he mostly sells back to the family. All vineyards are surrounded by 200 hectares of scrubby vegetation typical of Mediterranean regions, characterized by aromatic plants, such as thyme, rosemary or lavender, collectively known as garrigue, and protected woodlands. All vines grow between 350 and 550 meters in altitude, with cold air currents descending from Mount Ventoux, increasing the diurnal range, which helps to preserve natural acidity in the grapes. Among the Gigondas appellation, the wines are divided into Romane Machotte (for red, white and Rosé), Domaine Grand Romane (for red and white) and Le Pas de L’Aigle (red only). The Roman Machotte vineyard was mostly planted in the 1970s on limestone-rich soils. The Domaine Grand Romane vineyards, on the other hand, have more clay-based soils, while the Le Pas de L’Aigle vineyard is a specific parcel located near a V-shaped rock formation. These latter vines are grown at 500 meters above sea level on compact, limestone-rich blue marl soils, which provide excellent water retention. All Amadieu wines age in cellars constructed in 2018, a recent building made entirely of stone, which retains humidity well and offers better ventilation compared to concrete, Amadieu explains. With regards to white Gigondas, Domaine Grand Romane is among the oldest producers within the appellation. Old Clairette vines were planted in 1952, and most of them haven’t been uprooted, benefitting both the Gigondas Blanc Romane Machotte and Blanc Domaine Grand Romane. Taking a look at what’s in the glass, these are classic, elegant Gigondas representations, packing good freshness, from the high-altitude vineyards. On top of two solid results for both Gigondas Blanc wines in 2023, the Rosé Romane Machotte also comes highly recommended, with its expressive and spicy profile paired with ample substance.