Pierre Gaillard, Côtes du Rhône Blanc, Les Gendrines, Saint Joseph, Rhône, France, 2024

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

The grapes are sourced from a 1.5-hectare vineyard situated on fine granite-laden sandy hillsides with an eastern exposure, promoting cooler conditions that preserve the acidity of the Viognier. The vines are over 40 years old and are cultivated using sustainable practices.

Winemaking

Handpicked grapes undergo sorting to ensure only healthy, ripe fruit is used. Alcoholic and malolactic fermentations occur in barrels at controlled temperatures between 15–18°C. The wine is aged for 7 to 8 months in fine oak barrels from Allier and Nevers, with 5% new oak, and is stirred on lees weekly to enhance texture and complexity.

Tasting Note

A bouquet of white flowers, apricot, and tangerine zest, complemented by subtle notes of honey and spiced toffee. The palate is rich and textured, with a harmonious balance of acidity and minerality, leading to a lingering finish with hints of apricot, vanilla, and caramel.