Domaine Santa Duc - Gigondas Clos Derrière Vieille 2019

Bettane & Desseauve

About the domain :

The genes of excellence are undeniably rooted in the DNA of the Gras family. Yves, representing the fifth generation of winemakers, has just passed the baton to his son Benjamin, who interprets deep, elegant wines in which the purity of fruit is a veritable obsession. A polished style, in which the wines abandon a little generosity and concentration in favor of pure delicacy. This brand-new winery, in which terracotta jars flirt with oak tuns, is a wonderful welcome gift. The young winemaker's complantation, meticulous soil management, supple vinification and extensive international experience have enabled him to produce remarkable cuvées in his first vintage, such as this dashing 2017 Clos Derrière Vieille. A fine bow from his father, who produced a masterful final 2016 vintage.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the domain :

Based in Gigondas, Domaine Santa Duc has some very fine vines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with which it is producing splendid parcel-based cuvées in 2019. Benjamin Gras joined his father Yves in 2016, when the vines were cultivated according to biodynamic principles. Trained in Burgundy, Benjamin has retained a great sensitivity for fresh wines. Far from the rich, powerful style his father once produced, he seeks finesse and purity of fruit. Without applying recipes, so as not to weigh down naturally rich wines, he ages them partly in jars; the result is singular wines that have literally enchanted us with their purity and the definition of each terroir.

Wine Spectator

About the wine:

There's a lovely purity here, displaying blackcurrant core and plum reduction notes, while light licorice, apple wood and red tea notes run along the edges. It has a savory touch on the finish, with a subtle minerality that gives it length. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre.

Jancis Robinson

Jeb Dunnuck