Bertrand Stehelin Gigondas, Rhone, France

Powerful yet remarkably refined, the 2023 Bertrand Stehelin Gigondas captures the rugged beauty and depth of the southern Rhône Valley through old-vine fruit, mountain freshness, and generations of family winemaking tradition. Sourced from vineyards nestled beneath the Dentelles de Montmirail, this expressive red blend delivers layered dark fruit, savory spice, and structured elegance in a classic Gigondas style built for both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring.

Product Details:

• Grape Varieties: 70% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 5% Mourvèdre
• ABV: 14.8%
• Vineyard Location: Northwest of the Dentelles de Montmirail
• Vineyard Altitude: 100–300 meters above sea level
• Vine Age: 70–90 years old
• Harvest Method: Hand-harvested in crates
• Winemaking Style: Traditional winemaking
• Cellaring Potential: 8–15 years
• Estate History: Produced by a fifth-generation family of Rhône Valley winegrowers
• Owner & Winemaker: Bertrand Stehelin
• Family Leadership: Nicole and Frédéric Stehelin have managed the esteemed Domaine de la Paillère and Domaine Pied-Gû since 1978, with Bertrand Stehelin joining in 2001, and Caroline Stehelin recently joining the family estates

Sensory Description:

The 2023 Bertrand Stehelin Gigondas opens with deep aromas of black cherry, ripe blackberry, plum, cracked pepper, dried herbs, and lavender. On the palate, concentrated dark fruit layers are balanced by earthy minerality, savory spice, and subtle notes of garrigue that reflect the rugged Rhône terroir. Grenache provides richness and warmth, while Syrah and Mourvèdre contribute structure, peppery depth, and complexity. The finish is long and polished, with lingering dark fruit, spice, and finely integrated tannins.

Winemaker’s Background:

The Stehelin family represents five generations of Rhône Valley winemaking tradition in the prestigious Gigondas appellation. Nicole and Frédéric Stehelin have guided the family estates since 1978, building a reputation for wines that express both the power and freshness of the region’s terroir. Bertrand Stehelin, who joined the family business in 2001, expanded the family’s vision through his own label while maintaining the traditional craftsmanship and vineyard-driven philosophy that define the estate. Today, the next generation continues the legacy with Caroline Stehelin also joining the family operation.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the 2023 Bertrand Stehelin Gigondas at 60–65°F after allowing it to breathe briefly in a decanter. Pair it with grilled lamb, rosemary-roasted meats, duck confit, wild mushroom dishes, hearty stews, aged cheeses, or charcuterie. Its combination of richness, spice, and structure also makes it an excellent cellar candidate for collectors seeking classic Rhône Valley aging potential.