2007 Gigondas, Préstige des Hautes Garrigues, Domaine Santa Duc
The flagship cuvée at Santa-Duc and only produced in exceptional years, this is largely old-vine Grenache with some Syrah and a little Cinsault and Mourvèdre. Firm yet fine gripping tannin constrains the liqueur-like texture of the fruit. Yves Gras' talent lies in producing a concentrated, dense and mouth-filling wine, whilst retaining a supple, fluid character. The tannin and minerality foil the depth of fruit to give a balanced, complex and persistent wine. This is built to last and is undeniably fine.