Les Trois Couronnes Gigondas, 2007

In the Southern Rhone hierarchy, Gigondas ranks second, right behind Chateauneuf du Pape; as a result, $20 is usually considered a low price. I paid $11.99 for Les Trois Couronnes, primarily because it is a cooperative wine, a sibling of the low-priced Les Trois Couronnes Cotes du Rhone. This is my third try of the Gigondas, and I remain convinced that it is worthy of its appellation.

The color is deep and dark. Very peppery on the nose: pepper, spice, black fruits. Has the bold presence that is expected of a Gigondas. On the palate, it's chewy and tannic. With aeration, the black pepper becomes increasingly apparent on the palate, along with black fruits, lavender and spice. Tingles and lingers on the finish. Just the right amount of fruit and acid for the 14.5% alcohol. This would never be mistaken for Cayron (the very best Gigondas, in  my opinion), but it's a good Gigondas for the money.