One of the best finds from last summer were the wines of Château Gigognan in Châteauneuf du Pape. This estate has the potential to become one of the top names in the Rhône Valley.

Originally founded by a Roman legionary early in the 1st century A.D., the vineyard became the property of Bishop Geoffroy of Avignon in the 12th century, and has been producing wine since well before the Middle Ages.

Grenache old vines at Chateau Grigognan

The current owners, Anne and Jacques Callet, acquired Château Gigognan in 1987. The new owners completely renovated the château and its cellars and started organic farming of the vineyards. The 30 hectares of Châteauneuf du Pape and the 42 hectares of Côtes du Rhône have been certified organic by Ecocert since 2009.

All conditions for production of highest quality wines have been met:

• top notch terroir


• organic farming


• completely renovated cellars and state-of-the-art vinification equipment


• in 2011 the world-renowned oenologist Philippe Cambie came on board as the consulting winemaker

Currently available at ABC, but selling very fast, are the 2012 Côtes du Rhône Red $12.99, the 2012 Côtes du Rhône White and the Clos du Roi Châteauneuf du Pape 2010 Red, best Châteauneuf priced at only $34.99.

Atanas and Brad Lewis standing in Châteauneuf du Pape vineyards of Château Gigognan in March 2013

Check out the website for complete information on the wines and stunning photos of Château Gigognan and it's vineyards: www.gigognan.fr.

Atanas Nechkov, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits Wine Supervisor

Follow me on Twitter @abcwineatanas