From one of the most emblematic lieux-dits of the southern appellation, "Les Galimardes" 2020 from Domaine Giraud embodies the nobility of a Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC shaped by light, stone and time. Beneath the blanket of rolled pebbles that store daytime heat and release it at dusk, the very old Grenache vines draw a sap of rare concentration. The 2020 vintage, precise and harmonious, signs a cuvée with a silky mouthfeel, where power serves elegance. Notes of black cherry, liquorice, garrigue and fine spices intertwine with a savoury freshness and a saline finish that extend the pleasure. Endorsed by international critics, this characterful wine appeals to epicureans seeking a deep, voluptuous and luminous red, equally able to elevate a refined meal or move in a contemplative tasting. Carefully raised and patiently refined, it combines aromatic richness, succulent flesh and a noble structure to deliver a masterful interpretation of the Galimardes terroir, to be enjoyed now or followed over two decades.

Assemblage et vinification

The cuvée is dominated by Grenache at around 90%, from centenary vines planted in 1903, complemented by 10% Syrah. This duo provides fruity depth and a naturally spicy thread. The pebble-strewn, clay and limestone terroir brings density, ripeness and mineral freshness. The 18 months élevage combines the nobility of new oak barrels and the purity of concrete vats to refine the tannins, preserve the fruit’s brightness and add a discreet woody complexity. The final balance highlights the domaine’s signature—both classic and contemporary—where precise winemaking enhances the expression of the lieu-dit.

Tasting notes

• Colour: Deep purple with garnet highlights, clear and concentrated—an invitation to a luminous, dense material.
• Nose: An expansive bouquet of black cherries and ripe red fruit, spiced with exotic spices, white pepper and Provençal garrigue. Layers of liquorice, truffle and herbes de Provence add a sensual, savoury complexity.
• Palate: Generous, caressing attack with a silky texture carried by fine tannins. The freshness enlivens the mid-palate, revealing a subtle salinity on the finish. Remarkable length, balanced between sun-drenched power and airy grace.

Serving temperature and advice

Serve between 16 and 18°C in large glasses to enhance the bouquet. Prior decanting will bring out the aromatic energy and the finesse of the tannins. Store bottles lying down, away from light, at a stable temperature. This cuvée is charming to taste now and has a cellaring potential until 2038, allowing the Grenache to reveal truffle and undergrowth nuances while preserving the fruit’s vibrancy.

Food pairings

• Aperitifs: black tapenade, anchoïade, herb fougasse, fine charcuterie.
• Starters: country terrine with pistachios, roasted vegetables with thyme, hand‑cut beef tartare.
• Main courses: roast lamb with garrigue herbs, dry‑aged rib of beef, spiced pigeon, Provençal daube.
• Cheeses: sheep’s tomme, mature comté, farmhouse saint-nectaire, truffle brie.
• Desserts: spiced poached pear, low‑sugar dark chocolate dessert, notes of tonka bean.

Moments to enjoy

"Les Galimardes" 2020 is the ideal companion:

• To elevate a gourmet dinner where regional cuisine adopts an elegant tone.
• On a memorable occasion when depth, refinement and emotion are sought.
• As a gift for an enthusiast to share with a connoisseur of great Rhône wines.

Characteristics

• Name: Domaine Giraud, Les Galimardes 2020
• Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC
• Type: Red wine
• Vintage: 2020
• Grape varieties: Grenache 90 %, Syrah 10 %
• Alcohol: 15.5%
• Ageing: 18 months in new oak barrels and concrete vats
• Terroir: pebble-strewn soils, clays and limestones, lieu-dit Les Galimardes
• Cellaring: now to 2038
• Serving temperature: 16–18°C