2019 Domaine Gallety, Cotes du Vivarais, Vallee du Rhone, Cuvee Speciale

This property is based in the Cotes du Vivarais on the western bank of the Rhône River where the northern Rhône meets south. Within this humble appellation, Alain Gallety, now joined by his son David-Alexandre, have been nurturing grand ambitions of creating a top-tier Rhône wine that combines the power of the south with the finesse found in the north. They have farmed their land organically since the 1980s and have built a state-of-the-art, gravity fed winery so their grapes are handled as gently as possible before fermentation.  Their vineyards average 40-years-old with some Grenache plantings dating back to the 1930's, lending the wine extra depth and concentration that only old vines can offer.  A 50/50 blend of Syrah and Grenache, it brilliantly displays earthy, berry fruit, and black pepper spice with hints of violets and garrigue. Silky and supple on the palate with bright acidity, it is perilously easy to drink.  A spot-on pairing for grilled dishes, whether burgers or mushrooms, serve this with a slight chill for a magic addition to summer cookouts.