Wine Spotlight: Exploring the Rustic charm of Domaine Santa Duc 'Les Quatre Terres' Côtes du Rhône 2023 ...Now Pouring By The Glass!
- David Gabiné
- Nov 10
- 3 min read
Domaine Santa Duc has established a stellar reputation in the wine world, and their 'Les Quatre Terres' Côtes du Rhône 2023, is a shining example of their dedication to quality. This wine truly reflects the essence of the Rhône Valley. It showcases the region’s distinctive terroir and the skill of its producer. In this blog post, we will examine its characteristics, tasting notes, and the overall experience of enjoying this wonderful wine.
The Terroir of Côtes du Rhône
The Côtes du Rhône region is celebrated for its diverse landscapes and fertile soil, which significantly enhance the wines' flavors. Domaine Santa Duc's vineyards lie in the heart of this renowned area. Here, the combination of clay, limestone, and galets roulés (round pebbles) creates a perfect environment for grape growth.
In 2022, it was a hot and dry vintage in the Southern Rhône, marked by record-breaking heat and drought, this led to fully ripened grapes while maintaining their natural acidity. This balance is essential, as it contributes to the wine's flavor and refreshing qualities.
At the foot of the “Dentelles de Montmirail”
1874, The first buildings are constructed. Six generations succeed each other at Domaine Santa Duc, each adding their own contribution to its development. Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah and Cinsault; the Gras family are committed to bringing out the best in these noble grapes. Massal selections, biodynamics, whole cluster vinification, fermentation with wild yeasts, minimum intervention, non-filtered wines…. Parcel by parcel, Benjamin Gras maintains this meticulous approach at the head of the estate, engaging this heritage and these skills in the service of two immense terroirs of the southern Rhone Valley – Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
The Winemakers
Representing the 5th generation, Yves Gras has much in common with his beloved Gigondas terroir to which he has devoted so much of himself. As measured and humble as he is outspoken and committed, precise and hardworking, he represents the new guard of the nineties who contributed to putting Gigondas on the map.
6th generation of the Gras family, Benjamin has worked hand in hand with his father since 2017. After obtaining a diploma in oenology at the University of Bourgogne in Dijon, his experience was enriched by periods spent in prestigious wine estates such as Domaine de la Romanée-Conti and Bodega Vega-Sicilia. Just as his father did, he favors as little intervention as possible in winemaking, and respect for what nature has offered, whilst working with extreme precision and rigor. A work of continuity, but with the passion and the zeal of youth, he brings new energy just as his father did in his time. The saga continues with Benjamin.
Winemaking Philosophy
Domaine Santa Duc takes pride in Organic viticulture, ensuring that their practices enhance wine quality while preserving the environment. For 'Les Quatre Terres', grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted to ensure only the best are selected. A proportion is destemmed, the quantity being determined by the nature of the vintage and the parcel
Fermentation takes place in thermo-regulated stainless-steel vats for 20 to 30 days, with two long pumping over sessions daily. Punching down is decided after tasting. Pressed pneumatically. Malolactic fermentation in vat. The wines are clarified by settling over winter in the cellar. Barrel filling occurs in the spring. This meticulous attention to detail produces a wine that genuinely reflects the grapes' character and terroir.
Tasting Notes
Pouring a glass of Domaine Santa Duc Les Quatre Terres Côtes du Rhône 2023 reveals a bright ruby color, a sign of its youthful freshness. A lovely floral aroma with an enticing mix of red and black fruits especially cherry, raspberry, and blackberry, garrigue, and hints of herbs and subtle spices, including black pepper.
On the palate, this wine is medium-bodied and offers a smooth texture. The fruit flavors shine through, accompanied by a touch of earthiness that is characteristic of the region’s terroir. The finish is lingering and satisfying, with notes of ripe fruit and minerality.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Domaine Santa Duc Les Quatre Terres Côtes du Rhône 2023 truly shines when it comes to food pairings. Its balanced acidity and fruit-forward profile enhance various dishes. Consider these two pairings to elevate your tasting experience:
Cassoulet: The wine's fruitiness complements the rich flavors of Cassoulet, while its tannins and acidity cuts through the fat, creating a beautiful balance.
Ratatouille: This classic Provençal dish, brimming with vegetables, is beautifully complemented by the wine's herbal notes and vibrant fruit character.
Final Thoughts
Whether by the glass or by the bottle, Domaine Santa Duc 'Les Quatre Terres' Côtes du Rhône 2023, is the perfect bistro wine. Come enjoy a glass (or bottle), as this wine pairs well with so many of our dishes. You can thank us later!
Santé
For fellow wine geeks, or if you just want more technical info, click on the link below