Château GIGAULT Cuvée VIVA 2016 Côtes de BLAYE 75 cl Red Bordeaux Wine

Description

Château Gigault Cuvée Viva 2016: a benchmark for Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux

Château Gigault is now recognised as one of the leading estates in Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux. Thanks to the work of Christophe Reboul Salze and the guidance of Stéphane Derenoncourt, the estate produces wines that showcase the full richness of the clay-limestone terroirs on the right bank of Bordeaux.

The 2016 vintage is composed of 91 per cent Merlot and 9 per cent Cabernet Franc. The grapes are harvested at perfect ripeness and then carefully sorted before undergoing vinification tailored to each plot in order to preserve the fruit and elegance. Twelve months’ ageing, mainly in French oak barrels, adds complexity whilst respecting the wine’s identity.

The colour is deep, an intense garnet with purplish highlights. The nose reveals aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant, black cherry, plum, vanilla, cocoa, liquorice and delicate toasty notes. On the palate, the attack is full-bodied and harmonious. The tannins are fine, velvety and perfectly integrated, supported by a lovely freshness that brings balance and length. The finish is lingering, characterised by black fruits, sweet spices and a subtle hint of oak.

Served at between 16 and 18 °C, this Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux is the perfect accompaniment to a rib of beef, duck breast, rack of lamb, game, duck confit, porcini mushrooms or mature cheeses. Its ageing potential means it will continue to develop harmoniously for many years to come.

The 2016 vintage was produced before the estate’s conversion to organic farming.

• Château Gigault has been in the process of converting to organic farming since 2020.
• Recent vintages therefore benefit from this environmental approach, but the 2016 Cuvée Viva cannot be marketed as an organic wine.