Domaine Santa Duc : Aux Lieux-Dits 2022

Characteristics and tasting notes of the Gigondas "Aux Lieux-Dits" 2022 from Domaine Santa Duc

Tasting notes

Color
The color reveals a deep ruby hue with garnet reflections.

Nose
Remarkably complex, the bouquet opens with aromas of ripe red fruits and concentrated black fruits such as cherry, plum, and blackcurrant. It is enriched with notes of garrigue, sweet pepper, licorice, and dried flowers. With aeration, delicate touches of violet and sun-dried tomato emerge.

Palate
The attack is full-bodied and flavorful, offering a fleshy texture supported by lovely acidity. The ripe, silky tannins envelop the palate. The finish stands out for its impressive length, revealing notes of warm stone and garrigue, with a lingering return to black fruits.

Food and wine pairing

This red wine pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as herb-crusted rib of beef, roasted lamb, or slow-cooked dishes like a Provençal daube. It also pairs very well with pressed, cooked-curd aged cheeses as well as Mediterranean vegetarian dishes such as an eggplant gratin.

Service and storage

For optimal tasting, it is recommended to serve this Gigondas "Aux Lieux-Dits" 2022 between 15 and 16°C, after decanting for approximately 30 to 45 minutes. This wine can be enjoyed today but will continue to develop in the cellar, with a drinking window through approximately 2030.

The elegance and purity of a great Gigondas wine

The estate

Founded in 1874 in France, in the Rhône Valley, Domaine Santa Duc is a historic reference of its appellation. A family-owned estate for six generations, it is now run by Benjamin Gras, who succeeded his father Yves. A pioneer of organic viticulture in the region, the vineyard has been fully certified biodynamic since 2017. Combining deep respect for the terroir, massale selection, and minimal-intervention winemaking, Domaine Santa Duc is renowned for producing wines that blend finesse, purity, and elegance.

The vineyard

Located on the elevated plateau of Gigondas, at an altitude of approximately 150 meters, the vineyard thrives under a warm, sunny Mediterranean climate, close to the Dentelles de Montmirail. The vines grow on a mosaic of complex soils composed of red and blue clays, calcareous marls, and extremely stony soils. The estate rigorously applies biodynamic principles to preserve this unique ecosystem and encourage the authentic expression of the terroir.

The vintage

The year 2022 was marked by unusual weather conditions in the region. This specific weather pattern shaped a vintage distinguished by remarkable freshness and great aromatic precision, favoring finesse and elegance.

Winemaking and aging

The grapes for the Gigondas "Aux Lieux-Dits" 2022 are harvested by hand in small crates, followed by a rigorous double sorting in the vineyard and at the winery. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks using exclusively indigenous yeasts, with regular pump-overs and punch-downs. The wine is then aged for 18 months, combining large oak foudres and terracotta amphorae. It is bottled without any fining or filtration.