The 2022 vintage is characterized by exceptionally high temperatures and a particularly pronounced drought.
We remember the year 2022 as one of the hottest and driest in the last five years. With only 120 mm of rain in the first six months of the year (compared to an average of 400 mm), the vines showed limited growth in spring; we quickly observed the consequences of this drought with small clusters and dull foliage; 2022 is a record year for small berry size. The summer was continuously hot, day and night, gradually leading to maturity blocks. Fortunately, significant rains in mid-August and early September helped rebalance the grapes and unlock the maturation process. Interrupted by rain and storms, the harvest ultimately took place under very good conditions, hinting at a memorable vintage.
Two years later, 2022 holds its promises: here is an exceptional vintage, one of the finest since 2019.
After aging for 12 to 24 months, our Gigondas Domaine Grand Romane and Romane Machotte are dense, powerful, and concentrated; an exceptional vintage is taking shape, one of the most remarkable since 2019.
In these wines, we discover the classic bouquet of Gigondas, featuring notes of dark fruits (blackcurrant, blackberry), as well as floral hints (violet) and small red fruits (wild strawberry). The tannins are powerful yet silky, supporting the prominent aromas of garrigue and pepper.
While it would be interesting to let the 2022 vintage age for a few years, the balance on the palate and the creaminess of the tannins already make it enjoyable now. Open well in advance and serve the wines chilled at 15°C, as they warm up quickly in the glass!
Key takeaways from the 2022 vintage:
A sunny vintage with a warm climate, crafted for aging. The wine is powerful and can be appreciated now thanks to the finesse and creaminess of the tannins, along with a beautiful balance.
- Warm vintage
- Crafted for aging
- Powerful and silky vintage
- Enjoyable now
- Perfect balance
- 09.2024 Guide Hachette and Wine spectator
Great notes for our Gigondas and Cairanne 2022!
“Already stunning to taste, this wine promises to age beautifully in the coming years.” (October 2024)
“While displaying beautiful richness, it maintains a precise and balanced structure, offering a long and taut finish, driven by a mineral energy. It will evolve harmoniously over time.” (October 2024)
Gigondas Domaine Grand Romane 2022 ★
“This wine features noble oak notes with a hint of vanilla (15% new barrels). It results in a charming red, with an alluring nose of lilac and resin, where well-rounded tannins envelop a soft, rounded texture that pleasantly caramelizes on the finish.” (September 2024)
Cairanne Les Hautes Rives Rouge 2022 ★★
A soil of marls and fine Miocene sands covers the slopes of Les Hautes Rives, overlooking the Aygue River. This unique terroir contributes to the notably chalky texture of the tannins, along with a fine, expressive bouquet of strawberry jam, warm biscuit, and gingerbread. Dense, rich, and long, the palate exhibits youthful vigor that will benefit from aging in the cellar. A delicate licorice bitterness enhances the overall profile, further stimulating its deliciousness.” (September 2024)