The traditional face of Southern Rhone reds: Gigondas La Cave Vacqueyras Beaumirail 2016

Do you like cooperative wines? For me, Gigondas La Cave is just as attractive as producer as many family wineries. Their wines have a personality that I really like and the quality is very reliable.

The Beaumirail 2016 is a great example for the traditional style in the Southern Rhone. It’s ripe, but savoury and spicy rather than fruit-driven or sweet. Lovely hints of leather (don’t think of Brett). A bit full and broad on the palate, as one expects from a Grenache blend, but it’s tight and completely dry in a true Old World fashion, without being rustic or angular. Power under control.

Rating: very good, 89 points.
Price: around 13 Euros (Vinatis).
Value: good.
Tasted: November, 2019.
Source: I bought the bottle.
Drinking window: now-2022.