Gigondas

Gigondas was designated the appellation status during 1971, leaving behind the Cote-du-Rhone villages behind. The local appellation of encompasses over 1,200 hectares of land to the south of Rhone. The name is of Roman origin, coming from the Latin word 'Jocunditas', and the town itself was founded by them as a recreational site for soldiers from their Second Legion.

The appellation law is strict, dictating that the reds must consist of a maximum of 80% Grenache grapes, and a minimum of 15% Syrah or Mourvèdre, with the rose requiring a maximum of 80% Grenache as well. The average of 2,800 hours of sunshine per year is a great benefit for the appellation, with the strong Mistral wind helping to guarantee a perfect growing climate.