Gigondas 2016 Clos Derrière Vieille - Domaine Santa Duc

When the Clos Derrière Vieille is acquired by the Gras family in 1994, it had been barely cultivated. The former dairy still lies stately within the middle of the vineyards. In hard work, the terraces are restored to counteract erosion. The vines are planted in narrow terraces meanderingin in dense rows along the morphology of the steep limestone massif. Each grape variety was planted on a terrace to meet its demand for water: Syrah in damp soils and Mourvèdre in stony ones, Grenache in transitional zones: 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre. Located 350 meters above sea level, facing north-west, this special location with 6.5 ha of forest and 3.5 ha of vines offers a breathtaking view into the Rhone Valley. The nearby hospice and church gave it its name: Derrière la vieille ville (behind the old village). On the limestone soils of the Cretaceous, the wine develops a fine bouquet of fresh fruits and delicate, floral notes, supported by mineral freshness and fine tannins. An extraordinary taste experience that fully explains to what extent nature and the environment can give shape to a wine.

Varieties : 80% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah. The Syrah were planted on the richest areas, Mourvèdre on the better drained areas and Grenache on intermediate terraces.

Vinification : Hand picked with a very selective sorting, destemming, short and soft maceration. Soft punching-down.

Ageing : In recent casks (foudres) and terracotta jars during 18 months.

Terroir : Calcareous marl from Cretaceous period.