Domaine des Bosquets, nestled in the heart of Gigondas, exemplifies why this small Rhône village deserves closer attention. First recorded as a vineyard site in 1376, Domaine des Bosquets derives its name from bosquets—small groves—reflecting the vineyards' isolated locations amid forested slopes of the Dentelles.

Today, the estate is meticulously managed by Julien Brechet, whose detailed micro-vinifications have precisely mapped the domaine’s diverse terroirs. Certified organic and practicing biodynamic principles, the domaine emphasizes sustainability, using cover crops to enhance soil fertility, encourage biodiversity, and guide vine roots deeper into nutrient-rich subsoils.

With vines averaging 50 years in age across 14 distinct terroirs—including sandy soils, gravels, and various clays—yields are intentionally kept low to preserve quality in each lieu-dit. Harvesting is done entirely by hand, accompanied by rigorous fruit selection. Indigenous yeasts drive the fermentations, further underscoring the domaine’s commitment to authenticity. This exceptional care manifests clearly in the vibrant, expressive character of Domaine des Bosquets' cuvées.

La Colline is a tiny corner parcel of grenache planted in 1975 on a hillside of rocky, clay-limestone soils with lots of chalk. Yields are among Julien’s lowest, resulting in a meager 320 cases in an average year. Hand harvest precedes 30% whole-cluster, natural yeast fermentation with délestage. The wine ages 18-months in 600 liter neutral oak vessels. This gorgeous wine shines in hues of ruby with layers of kirsch, framboise, herbes de Provence, dark chocolate and burning rosemary. A beautiful chalky architecture lattices together the aromatics and the the silken body of the wine.

“This cuvée is almost always the more powerful and concentrated in the lineup, yet in 2018 it shows the more elegant, seamless style of the vintage beautifully.” 97pts Jeb Dunnuck