Aimé Arnoux Gigondas, Domaine la Maurelle | 2019

70% Grenache with a hefty portion of Syrah (at 30%), the Arnoux family has been making wine in Gigondas for nearly a century. Located along the southwest foot of the Dentelles de Montmarail, Gigondas benefits from altitude and a patchwork of soil types which give its wines more lift and glide on the palate than a typical beefier Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Domaine la Maurelle comes from a sandy parcel. Aged in large old barrels and cement, the nose is a savory treasure of sweet smoke, dark melted reds, and teriyaki spice. A great alternative for Châteauneuf-du-Pape, pair with grilled lamb chops, hearty tomato-based sauces, or duck ragu. ~Allegra A