Grapelive Wine of the Day
By Kerry Winslow
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2009 Dauvergne Ranvier Gigondas Vin Rare, Rhone Red, France.
I didn’t think it could get much better than Dauvergne-Ranvier 2007 Gigondas, but then came this fantastic new release, and I can say with out a doubt these guys are worth watching and worth every penny, this 2009 Gigondas is one of the best of the vintage that I’ve tried and it should just get better and better over the next 2 to 3 years. The 2009 is dark and thick with layers of fruit, mineral essence and vibrant peppery spices, plus sublime length and balance. The nose is fresh with grapey notes, crushed berries, sweet floral and herb notes and a vain of earthy spices before a lush and round palate of Grenache driven fruit with blackberry, plum, grenadine, cherry and strawberry along with hints of game, lavender, pepper and chalky minerals. This wine is on par with most Chateauneuf’s and should be sought after by Rhone fans, while not easy to find, this is a remarkable and beautiful Gigondas.
($42 Est.) 94 Points, grapelive
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