At a glance

Producer

Clos des Grillons

Region

Côtes du Rhône, France

Grape variety

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre (GSM blend)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$40

Tasting profile

Fresh red and black fruit aromas (cherry, blackberry) with subtle mineral hints, peppery spice, and earthy undertones.

Evolution: Will gain complexity with secondary aromas of leather, tobacco, and forest floor developing after 5-7 years.

At peak: Balanced integration of fruit and tertiary characteristics, silky tannins and persistent finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium acidity, fresh and balanced

Tannins

Medium to firm tannins, finely grained

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage given vintage quality and producer reputation

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2031

Optimal window

2026 to 2031

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

Youthfully tight with vibrant fruit and firm tannins

The 2022 vintage in the Southern Rhône was warm and dry, producing ripe fruit with good concentration. The calcareous soils add chalky minerality and structure that supports long-term aging, typically 10-15 years for this style and producer. Proper cellaring will allow gradual tannin softening and flavor complexity to develop through the late 2020s.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, duck breast with herbs, ratatouille, roasted vegetables, or aged hard cheeses complement this wine’s intensity and structure.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To allow tannins to soften and aromatics to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Clos des Grillons employs organic viticulture, uses dry farming techniques to reduce water use, integrates cover cropping for soil health, and uses natural yeast fermentation without additives.

The producer's commitment to organic farming and low-intervention winemaking promotes biodiversity and soil conservation. Dry farming minimizes irrigation needs, reducing water consumption. Lightweight packaging reduces transportation emissions. While exports add to carbon footprint, overall sustainability practices are strong, earning a high score.