Geology, Terroirs, and Climate of AOP Gigondas

Climate and Exposure of Our Vineyard

Our vineyard benefits from a Mediterranean climate dominated by sunshine and the Mistral (north wind).

It is located at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, an abrupt massif, thanks to which rising and falling breezes temper the temperature peaks.

The west-facing exposure of our estate provides perfect aeration and helps combat the excessive summer heat. This gives our wines a finesse and acidity that make them excellent for aging.

Indeed, by limiting morning sunlight, the Dentelles de Montmirail significantly extend the ripening period of Grenache, which needs time to express itself fully.

The vines of our estate thrive on sandy soil derived from "safre."

The sandy soils, with their high permeability, mitigate the erosion from runoff water and allow for quick drainage of the plots.

This also helps to store solar energy, extending the vegetative activity of the vines. The abundant presence of sands ("safre" in Provençal) has enabled a rare viticultural exception: the presence of pre-phylloxeric vines.

The uniqueness of this terroir is such that it gave the domain its name. Indeed, the Provençal word "taissoun" refers to badgers that dig their burrows in the safre soils. The fineness of the sand results from a natural process of bedrock degradation over time. This particular delicacy is reflected in the wines of our estate. This terroir imparts a finesse and uniquely silky tannins within the Gigondas appellation.

Moreover, it is the smallest terroir in the AOP, representing only about thirty hectares, whereas the entire appellation covers approximately 1,300 hectares.

Gigondas, an appellation with unique geology for an exceptional terroir...

The terroirs of Gigondas form a unique geological ensemble, nestled in the heart of the Dentelles de Montmirail, also known as "mons mirabilis" or the admirable mountain. Emerging from the sea 200 million years ago, these rock formations, rising to 630 meters at the Rocher du Turc, shape a landscape profoundly influenced by geology. The formidable elevation of the Dentelles de Montmirail, made up of remarkable limestone blades, gives Gigondas a diversity of soils.

This massif presents a great geological variety, composed of limestone, marl, sand, and sandstone, creating an uncommon combination of terroirs in the Rhône Valley. The wines from this region are often praised for their complexity, benefiting from the exceptional geological richness that characterizes the soils of Gigondas.