The Southern Rhone is home to many famous wine regions known for their exceptional reds, including the under-the-radar appellation of Gigondas, where a Mediterranean climate and red clay soils are essential for grapes like Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre to thrive. For the 2019 vintage, Domaine Francois-Xavier Lambert uses these varietals to create a traditional blend that exudes aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, and chai with velvety, rich tannins on a long silky finish. At just $18, it's easy to drink well any night of the week.
Member Rating: 91
Tech Notes
Wine Details
Jeb Dunnuck
Wine Advocate
Jancis Robinson
| Unit Size | 750.00 ML |
| Varietal | Red Blend
|
| Vintage | 2019 |
| Grape | Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre |
| Country | France |
| Appellation | Gigondas |
| Region | Rhône Valley |
| Alcohol Content | 14.50% |
By Domaine Francois Xavier Lambert
Gigondas 2019
Appellation
Domaine Francois Xavier Lambert has been creating wines full of color, finesse, elegance, and generosity since the 18th century. The vines, the oldest of which are over 80 years old, are nestled at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, in the most secret and wildest corners of Gigondas.
Terroir
Soil: Alluvial terrace and Zaffre
Varieties: 50% Grenache Noir, 45% Syrah, 5% Mourvedre
Parcels: Pallierouda, les Hautes Garrigues and La Daysse
Exposition: Northwest/north
Winemaking
Traditional winemaking in concrete vats. Gentle extraction and long maceration of 30 days. Aged in concrete vats and French oak barrels.
Tasting
Red-purple in color. An elegant and powerful nose of ripe black fruit and spices. A structured palate with silky tannins and a fresh finish.
Food and Wine Pairing
Drink within five years. Serve between 60 and 64 degrees F. Will pair perfectly with lamb rack and sweet and savory dishes. A perfect wine for celebrations!
[Information provided by Votto Vines]
2019 Domaine Francois Xavier Gigondas
Producer: Domaine Francois Xavier
Location: France, Rhone, Southern Rhone, Gigondas
Color: Red
Rating: 91-93
Tasting Date: 10/6/2020
Maturity: 2020 - 2035
Reviewed By: Jeb Dunnuck
Source: Southern Rhone: The Charming, Provencal 2018s and the More Concentrated, Classic 2019s
The 2019 Gigondas appears to be a beautiful wine in the making. Revealing a dense purple/ruby color as well as an exotic bouquet of wildflowers, candied orange, Christmas spice, and both red and blue fruits, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a beautiful mid-palate, and outstanding length on the finish. I love its texture, it’s balanced, and it should evolve nicely for 10-15 years. Smart money is on giving bottles 2-3 years in the cellar.
2019 Francois Xavier Lambert Gigondas
Producer: Francois Xavier Lambert
From: France, Rhone, Southern Rhone, Gigondas
Color: Red
Type: Table
Sweetness: Dry
Variety: Proprietary Blend
Rating: 91
Reviewed by: Joe Czerwinski
Issue Date: 12th Nov 2020
Source: November 2020 Week 2, The Wine Advocate
Drink Date: 2021 - 2030
[...] made in tank and aged in foudres, the 2019 Gigondas offers a mix of red and black cherries on the nose, backed by hints of black olive and garrigue. It's full-bodied and rich on the palate, with ripe tannins and a chunky, beefy feel in the mouth, then a lingering, velvety finish. Powerful and sturdy, it should drink well for at least a decade.
St-Francois Xavier 2019 Gigondas
Producer: St-Francois Xavier
Appellation: Gigondas
Region: Southern Rhone
Country: France
Colour: Red
Score: 16+/20
When to drink: 2022 – 2026
Published on: 25 Nov 2020
Date tasted: 8 Oct 2020
Aged in oak. Cask sample.
Tasted blind. Plummy and strawberry. Clean fruit and tight tannins – nice weight to the fruit and needs a little time but there is good freshness. Elegant style. (AC)
