Guigal own and operate the most distinguished vineyards, specializing in some of the great growths of Cote-Rôtie. They have long set the benchmark and are well known for paying the highest prices, while assembling the most superior parcels of fruit in all Cotes du Rhône. Syrah, Mourverdre and Grenache are collated from illustrious appellations along the windswept aspects of Valley Rhone, to be treated to a traditional vinification, followed by an extravagant, extended maturation in oak foudres, coopered within the walls of the ancient Château d'Ampuis.
The Guigal domain was founded in 1946 by Etienne Guigal in the ancient village of Ampuis, home to the wines of the Cote-Rôtie. Around these double millenium vineyards, you can still see the small terraced walls of Roman times. A mostly Syrah wine with about a third of Mourvedre and smaller portion of Grenache grown to good vineyards of varied soil types, sedimentery and limestone, granite, pebbles and alluvia. Average age of these fully mature vines is thirty five years. The traditional local winemaking methods are employed to this day, combined with temperature controlled fermentation and extended period of soaking on skins. Matured for up to eighteen months in a selection of well seasoned oak foudres.
Deep, dark red colour. Nose of fresh red fruits, ripe berries and fragrant spice. Well rounded, racy palate, blue and black fruit flavours, licorice and kirsch notes, lavender and spice. Supple yet intense, the long finish delivering plenty of elegance, finesse and lingering fruit, in the classic Cotes-du-Rhone styling. Guigal Rouge is the ideal accompaniement to braises and grills, red wine casseroles and game.
