COLOUR
Red
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2020
GRAPE
Syrah, Viognier
PRODUCER
Pierre Gaillard
REGION
Rhône Valley
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Medium - Full
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
Medium
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
Tannins
Medium - High
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
The Pierre Gaillard Esprit de Blonde 2020 hails from the AOC Côte-Rôtie in the Northern Rhône Valley. This red wine is primarily Syrah, with a small percentage of Viognier, sourced from vines averaging over 40 years old on the Côte Blonde. The vineyard parcel is small, contributing to its limited production. The wine's name, 'Esprit de Blonde,' translates to 'Spirit of Blonde,' referencing its specific vineyard origin. Domaine Pierre Gaillard was established in 1986 by Pierre Gaillard, who has extensive experience in the region.
ALCOHOL
13.5%
AVG. PRICE
€94
STYLE
Classic
SULPHITES
NO
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
15-16°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
Named 'Esprit de Blonde' after the famed Côte Blonde slope.
Fact 02
Features a small but significant addition of Viognier.
Fact 03
Vines average over 40 years old.
Fact 04
Production is very limited, around 175 cases annually.
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The production of Pierre Gaillard Esprit de Blonde 2020 involves hand-harvesting and sorting of the Syrah and Viognier grapes. The grapes are typically destemmed before fermentation, which takes place at high temperatures, followed by extended maceration. Malolactic fermentation occurs in barrels. The wine is then aged for 18-20 months in French oak, with the 2020 vintage utilizing 50% new and 50% one-year-old casks. The wine is bottled unfiltered.
