Deep ruby red fading just slightly to a purple-pink at the edge. Intriguing nose of black cherries, dark plums, and a hint of blackberry. Black cherry, purple plums, smooth tannins, and nice balancing acidity on the midpalate. Black fruit, tannic twang, and a touch of black pepper on the medium long finish. This wine is drinking nicely now, but I think it has the structure to go at least 3-5 more years.
With grilled pork chops marinated in a orange/lime mix, this wine had the acidity and structure to nicely match this dish with the food enhancing the acid and fruit of the wine while taming the tannins somewhat. Also nice with garlic mashed potatoes.
Wine: 2001 Gigondas, Domaine du Grapillon D'Or. 13.9% abv. 80% mouvedre, 20% syrah, 40 year-old vines. Unfiltered and aged in oak for 14 months.