Pierre Gaillard, Domaine Madeloc, Banyuls Cirera, Roussillon, France (50cl.), 2017

Producer Profile

Pierre Gaillard continues to produce some of the most stunning wines from his 25ha domaine near Malleval.

Handling the Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne and Syrah with the same gifted care, he offers a very fine and wide range of wines. We are only importing a limited selection from his superlative collection. When he is not busy in the Northern Rhône, he is helping his daughters, Jeanne in Crozes Hermitage and Elise in Banyuls, whilst even finding time to run a small estate in Faugères.

Viticulture

Cultivated on steep, Mediterranean-facing terraces between 50–100 m above sea level on schist soils, these vines thrive in the heat and dryness while drawing moisture from deep belowground fissures. Averaging around 40 years old and hand-harvested, the Grenache Noir fruit achieves optimal ripeness, showcasing the estate’s steadfast respect for Banyuls terroir.

Winemaking

This is a Banyuls Rimage or Vins Doux Naturel—an artful sweet fortified wine. Fermentation halts with the addition of neutral grape spirit at around 90 g/L residual sugar, preserving vibrant fruitiness. The wine continues maceration post-fortification under warm conditions to gain structural and aromatic richness. A reductive aging approach—conducted sheltered from oxygen—safeguards the wine’s freshness, minerality, and fruity clarity.

Tasting Note

A captivating explosion of red and black fruits—think juicy cherry and ripe blackcurrant—intensely aromatic and richly flavoured. The palate is bold yet lush, offering velvety tannins, rounded sweetness, and a depth that balances plush fruit with mineral drive, finishing with a defined, tactile presence.

Food Matching

Duck breast with a cherry reduction, robust blue cheeses, and rich dark chocolate desserts.