Gigondas, 1985 Red Wine
Gour de Chaule
Bottle size: 75cl
ABV: 14%

Price:
£59.95
Description
This distinguished 1985 Gigondas from Domaine du Gour de Chaulé is a fine example of a traditional, family-run Southern Rhône estate. Known for its artisanal approach and old-vine Grenache, the domaine produces structured, soulful wines that age with grace. The 1985 vintage, one of the finest of the decade in the Rhône Valley, gave wines of balance, ripe fruit, and longevity—qualities that still shine nearly forty years on.
Tasting Notes
Brick-red with an amber rim, this mature Gigondas opens with complex aromas of dried cherries, figs, garrigue herbs, and leather, laced with notes of cedar, spice, and truffle. The palate is medium-bodied, with softened tannins and layers of plum, tobacco, and earth, finishing with a savoury, lingering warmth. At full maturity, it offers the charm of aged Grenache-led Rhône with remarkable depth and subtlety.
Serving and Food Pairing
Serve at 16–18°C with gentle decanting to remove sediment. This wine pairs beautifully with slow-braised lamb, venison stew, or duck confit. Vegetarian pairings include mushroom ragout, cassoulet of white beans and herbs, or roasted root vegetables. Mature cheeses such as Tomme de Savoie or aged Comté also complement its earthy richness.
Winemaking
The 1985 vintage was warm and even, producing wines with ripe tannins and excellent ageing capacity. At Domaine du Gour de Chaulé, winemaking remains firmly traditional: hand-harvested grapes, fermentation in concrete vats, and ageing in large old foudres. This method allows the Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre blend to express terroir authenticity and evolve gracefully over decades.
Domaine du Gour de Chaulé is a family estate established in 1900 and long guided by the founder’s descendants, committed to traditional Gigondas. With old-vine plantings and minimal intervention in the cellar, the domaine has built a reputation for wines of purity, elegance, and impressive ageing potential.
How to store your Wine
Keep bottles lying on their side in a cool, dark cellar at 10–14°C. The 1985 is fully mature and best enjoyed now, though carefully cellared bottles may still show interest for another 1–2 years.
Condition
Good level and label
Reviews
***90 Points - Aggregated Critic Score***