Dominique Ay, the serious-minded proprietor of Domaine Raspail-Ay, makes one of the most iconic wines in all of Gigondas. Its 19 hectares make up one contiguous block of vines, midslope on the rugged clay/limestone terraces, the best terroir of the Gigondas appellation. The imposing rock formation of the Dentelles de Montmirail looms above as a backdrop. Everything about Domaine Raspail-Ay Gigondas is traditional: a classic blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre; vinification in concrete, and aging in large oak foudres. Besides a small amount of Gigondas Rosé, only one wine is made – Gigondas. There is no Côtes du Rhône, no “Réserve”, “Vieilles Vignes”, or special new oak cuvée bottling. Only one wine is made, consistently ranked among the top wines produced in the appellation year in and year out.

Classic Gigondas, it’s full-bodied, fruity, fine, and well-balanced. Aromas of red fruits – raspberries and black cherries – with notes of black pepper, lead to more complex scents of licorice and herbs de Provence. Tannins are ripe, the wine fills the mouth with warm, generous flavors yet with an underlying structure that bodes well for future potential. A fruit-forward and accessible wine, Domaine Raspail-Ay is ideal with food.