Pierre Gaillard Clos De Cuminaille 2021

Clos de Cuminaille is a historic vineyard located in the Saint-Joseph AOC of the Northern Rhone Valley. This appellation, known for its elegant Syrah wines, benefits from steep, granitic slopes and an eastern exposure, providing optimal conditions for producing fresh and mineral-driven wines. This particular vineyard was the first planted by Pierre Gaillard in 1981.

This wine is made from Syrah, the signature grape of the Northern Rhone. The style is elegant, with a focus on freshness and complexity. It is a quintessential Saint-Joseph, balancing fruit-forward character with spicy, earthy nuances​. The winemaking process begins with a full destemming of the grapes to preserve the wine's elegance. The juice undergoes a cold maceration before fermentation, followed by post-fermentation maceration. Malolactic fermentation takes place in oak barrels. The wine is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, with 30% new oak, ensuring a subtle integration of wood and fruit​ notes.

The 2021 Pierre Gaillard Clos de Cuminaille displays a bouquet of blackberries, ripe cherries, and plums, interwoven with aromas of black pepper, cocoa, and hints of dried tobacco. Smoky nuances and a touch of graphite add complexity to the nose. On the palate, it unfolds with vibrant acidity and fine-grained tannins, leading to flavours of fresh black fruits layered with liquorice, cloves, and dark chocolate. The finish is lingering and balanced, with a gentle spiced warmth and a mineral freshness​.

This wine pairs excellently with rich and savoury dishes. Serve it alongside grilled Black Angus steak, roasted lamb, or dishes featuring earthy, spiced flavours. Its refined profile also makes it a great match for aged cheeses or vegetable stews​.