The 2023 vintage marks a significant victory for the winemakers of the Gigondas appellation. After 11 years of intensive work, characterized by experiments and collective efforts, a group of passionate winemakers has achieved recognition from the INAO for the production of white wines under the Gigondas appellation. We have always been committed to showcasing the unique terroirs of Gigondas. Learn more…
In our Romane vineyard, we have preserved the Clairette Blanche vines planted by our grandfather in 1958. Our white wines, with their aromas of white-fleshed fruits and white flowers, have always highlighted the greatness of our high-altitude terroir for white wines. Today, 16 hectares are planted with white grape varieties in the appellation, including 6 hectares in our Romane Machotte vineyard, predominantly with Clairette Blanche.
On September 18th, we began the long-awaited harvest of our Clairette grapes to create the first vintage of the Gigondas Blanc appellation. After months of patience and meticulous care, we are proud to present our Gigondas Domaine Grand Romane Blanc cuvée.
The Domaine Grand Romane Blanc is an ode to Clairette Blanche, the queen variety of Gigondas Blanc.
An exceptional terroir
Our old Clairette blanche vines thrive on a cool terroir at an altitude of 300 metres, on north-facing slopes. The mineral-rich soil of Cretaceous limestone gives our Domaine Grand Romane white a remarkable minerality and salinity. As a result, the exposure and composition of our terroir encourage the grapes to ripen slowly, preserving their freshness and aromatic complexity.
Clairette Blanche is the main grape variety of Gigondas white, accounting for at least 70% of the total. Grown on the Gigondas terroir, it offers delicate aromas and a unique freshness, revealing the appellation's complex limestone soils. This minerality can be found in the glass, with elegant whites featuring notes of citrus fruit and white flowers.
A rigorous vinification process for Clairette
The vinification of this cuvée is the result of meticulous work and a commitment to tradition. After rigorous parcel selection, manual harvesting takes place in late September, at optimal ripeness. The Clairette is then entirely vinified in oak barrels:
- 20% in new barrels
- 60% in barrels used for several vintages
- 20% in oak foudres
This diverse aging process brings a unique aromatic and structural complexity to the wine. Regular stirring of the lees and aging for 9 months contribute a silky dimension while preserving the wine’s freshness and fruit purity.
Tasting note
Our cuvée Domaine Grand Romane Blanc, 100% Clairette, unveils delicate floral aromas of lime blossom and acacia, mingled with notes of grapefruit and anise. Aging on fine lees imparts a creaminess that balances the wine’s tension and chalky structure. The sapid, persistent finish reveals the richness and freshness of our high-altitude terroir. Additionally, the minerality and salinity underscore Clairette’s characteristic traits, offering remarkable length on the palate and excellent aging potential.
To fully enjoy our 100% Clairette cuvée, we recommend pairing it with seafood dishes such as scallops, oysters, or sea bass fillet. Its freshness and minerality also complement soft cheeses and vegetarian dishes with fresh herbs perfectly.
