DOMAINE RASPAIL-AY Gigondas

Christophe Ay, whose respect for his inheritance runs deep.

Christophe Ay represents the 6th generation of his family to have held the reins at this marvellous domaine, the vineyards of which are located near to the entrance to the village of Gigondas. The vines, which are in an autonomous block around the house, average some 45 years of age, with the oldest plots of Grenache a venerable 90 years old. There is nothing fancy here, just intelligent, traditional winemaking, with the grapes, of which 70% are Grenache supported by Syrah & Mouvèdre, being handpicked before destemming and subjected to a 3-4 week maceration before the wine is racked into the large old oak foudres which used to be commonplace in the region, and in which they are allowed to quietly evolve for 18-24 months before being racked off into smaller barrels for a further 6 or so months. Christophe has inherited from his father Dominique a quiet, intuitive approach to his craft, and a deep respect for his inheritance. These are truly lovely wines which exude a confident airiness and a natural harmony which makes them completely delightful from their youth, whilst cellaring them from anything from 2 or 3 to perhaps 12 years and beyond will allow them to realise their quiet potential.