Espiers Gigondas Les Grames 2022 is a classic, organic Gigondas red from Domaine des Espiers, a family-run estate in the Southern Rhône’s Gigondas AOC of France that combines traditional winemaking with respect for terroir and sustainable farming. Founded in 1989 by Philippe Cartoux, the domaine has been organically farmed since 1996 and is known for wines that reflect both terroir and traditional Southern Rhône character, with daughter Amélie Cartoux now helping guide the estate’s evolution. This Gigondas Les Grames is grown on sandy plains vineyards planted mainly to Grenache with a significant portion of Syrah, vinified in a traditional Southern Rhône style with cold soak, gentle extraction and a period of élevage (about six months) in large barrels, giving structure and harmony without overpowering oak influence. In the glass it typically shows a deep, ruby-garnet colour with aromatic complexity of ripe red and black fruits, garrigue herbs, spice and subtle earthiness, framed by balanced acidity and fine, savoury tannins that carry through to a long finish. The wine’s texture and depth reflect both the Grenache-driven fruit core and Syrah’s spice-and-structure contribution, making it accessible in youth yet rewarding with short-to-medium-term cellaring. This rich yet elegant Gigondas pairs beautifully with provençal-style lamb, beef daube, roasted game, herb-crusted pork or slow-cooked Mediterranean stews, and its layered spicy fruit and savoury profile also complement hard cheeses and grilled vegetables. Why we love this wine? We love the sunny Grenache depth of Gigondas!