Characteristics: Like the arousing scent of sizzling bacon from another room, this is Syrah as only the Rhône seems to foster it. Savory with silty, polished berries and plum skins –ripe and sweet, this is bright and taut and yet supple and inviting. Balanced, with a crescendo of fruit and then spice I’m completely convinced when it builds to a savory bouquet and plum texture through its LASTING finish –lovely! Flavors are still trembling on this pleasurable curtain call. When complemented Gaillard broke the humblest smiles bearing no teeth or even a curl at his lips only a coruscating twinkle behind his eyes. Perhaps it’s humility? Perhaps it’s recognition that the place should get all the credit? Whatever the cause, wines like these will earn Gaillard ongoing laurels.
- Tasting note by Nicholas D. Livingston, February 2010