Gigondas 2016 Tasting at Manhatta

Masterclass with Pascaline LePeltier, MOF  November 13th, 2023, Manhatta

One of my best master class experiences is the year. Not only we got a master class taught by Pascaline LePeltier, a true master of French wine. But also the vintage (2016) and atmospheres (hey. Its manhatta! )


So here are some of my quick takeaways:
1. Marl is the key. Try to build connections of soil types with wine itself.
2. 2016 is a warm vintage, you are expected to experience heat.
3. distinguish oak tannins and grape tannins, they are very different.
4. Distinguish each wine's grape variety composition and feel the difference.

Here comes the wine list:
1. Domaine la Bouissiere Gigondas Tradition 2016
The wine contains lots of fresh fruits. Tannin is still green but pleasant, very bright acidity. all this can be contributed by NW exposure and elevation (350m).
A fruity, refresh, cranberry juice vibe with M+ finish. Age worthy for sure.

2. Chateau de Saint Gigondas 2016

Interesting wine! Smells like candy, warm spices, and bubble gum! (it is whole cluster fermentation). The wine comes from a cold part of the region with long growing seasons, which concentrates the favor and provide nice acidity. Despite 20% in new oak, the tannin is more from grapes themselves.

3. Domaine du Clayton Gigondas 2016

Very good wine. methanol, licorice, interesting .

4. Domaine Gour de Chaule tradition 2016
Still Young, refresh, lots of fruits notes, such as cherry, spices notes: cloves, nutmeg
with no sensation of alcohol despite of being 14%. Just very integrated.

5. Moulin de la Garrett’s Cuvée Vemtabren 2016
The wine is very concentrated and complex, showing great aging potential with plenty of herbs and floral/ sweet spice. Long savory finish. the tannin is still very grappy. Hold and drink maybe in 5 years at least.

6. Domaine Santa duc. Les Huates Garrigues 2016
This wine is 50/50 Grenache and Mourvèdre
The tannin s strong. Hot wine, high ABV with nice bright acidity. Another super concentrated wine that simply needs more time to mature and express itself.