2018 Domaine Lavau - Gigondas

Story
Maison Lavau, founded in 1965 in the Rhone Valley, started growing strategically in 2000 when Frédéric and Benoît Lavau took over. In 2013, they merged with Château Maucoil, emphasizing their commitment to quality wines and the region’s character. Today, it’s one of the few family-run estates, focusing on sharing, pleasure, and simplicity.

Vineyard
This wine originates from plots situated on the terraced slopes of Gigondas, directly facing the north, nestled at the base of the renowned Dentelles de Montmirail. The mature Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre vines are cultivated in relatively infertile, calcareous-marl soils, fostering a delayed grape ripening process and yielding robust, potent wines.

Vinification
The grapes are destemmed and macerated in temperature-controlled vats for 28 days. The wine is then aged for 12 months, with 55% in vats and 45% in 450L used barrels for 1 or 2 vintages before blending.

Tasting Notes
Ruby red color in the glass. The nose is deep with pronounced spicy aromas (pepper, nutmeg) and notes of blackcurrants and raspberry jam. On the palate, the wine shows a solid yet nicely coated structure, volume and superb length.