Product Description:
The Domaine Saint-Damien Gigondas Vieilles Vignes 2022 showcases the incredible depth and complexity of one of the Southern Rhône’s most revered vineyards. A blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah from the estate’s oldest vines, this wine embodies the essence of the Gigondas terroir. Aged in large old foudres for 12 months, it balances ripe, dark fruit with savoury herbaceous layers and earthy spice. The 2022 vintage stands out for its freshness, fine tannins, and vibrant acidity, making it a fantastic example of the potential of the region’s old vines.
Maker:
Domaine Saint-Damien is a family-run estate led by Joël Saurel, with winemaking now under the expert guidance of his son, Romain. With a rich history spanning over 100 years of viticulture, the Saurel family has consistently focused on quality, sustainability, and organic farming. The estate is certified organic, and all wines are vinified, aged, and bottled on-site. With the help of consulting winemaker Philippe Cambie, Domaine Saint-Damien has become one of the top names in Gigondas, known for its elegance and depth of character.
Philosophy:
At Domaine Saint-Damien, the philosophy is simple: respect the land, honour tradition, and craft wines that reflect the uniqueness of their terroirs. The Saurel family practices organic viticulture and sustainability, focusing on natural methods to protect the vineyard and the environment. The estate’s low-yielding vines are hand-harvested and carefully nurtured, allowing the grapes to fully express the essence of Gigondas. From the vineyard to the bottle, their approach ensures wines with character, authenticity, and integrity.
Tasting Notes
NOSE:
Aromas of Dark Fruit and Spice
The nose is an aromatic explosion of dark fruit, with ripe raspberries and blackberries leading the charge. Subtle hints of dried herbs, crushed pepper, and earthy spices add complexity, creating an inviting and layered bouquet.
PALATE:
Rich, Structured, and Balanced
The palate is full-bodied with smooth, integrated tannins. The dark berry flavours continue, accompanied by earthy notes of Provençal herbs, scorched earth, and a touch of liquorice. The freshness from the Grenache is balanced by the depth from the Syrah, offering a seamless and elegant profile.
FINISH:
Long and Savoury
The finish is long, lingering, and savoury, with fine tannins that impart a structured mouthfeel. Notes of black pepper and herbs persist, leaving a refreshing and complex aftertaste that beckons for another sip.
Reviews + Accolades:
‘Possibly my favorite of the trio, the 2022 Gigondas Vieilles Vignes (80% Grenache and 20% Syrah) offers a full-bodied, incredibly textured, yet seamless and elegant profile to go with lots of meaty dark fruits, some classic Southern Rhône licorice, roasted herb, and spice box nuances, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's another sensational effort from this estate, which continues to go from strength to strength.’ (94-96) points, Jeb Dunnuck, October 2023..
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - 80% Grenache, 20% Mouvèdre
Country - France
Region - Southern Rhone
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 15%
