Gabriel Meffre - Sainte-Catherine 2021
Vineyard Story
1936–1990
Founded in 1936 in Gigondas by Gabriel Meffre and his wife, the Maison Gabriel Meffre became a key player in the Rhône Valley wine industry. Managing up to 800 hectares of vineyards, it became France's leading producer of AOC vines. After Gabriel’s passing in 1987, his children refocused the business on the estates and sold the company to Allied Domecq.
1990–1999
Under the leadership of Bertrand Bonnet, the Maison modernized, expanding into export markets, creating strong wine brands, and establishing partnerships with Languedoc winemakers. By 1997, the company was acquired by its management team, doubling its turnover and workforce within a decade.
1999–2009
The company returned to its roots by acquiring Domaine de Longue Toque (27 ha) and managing Château Grand Escalion (44 ha), emphasizing sustainable viticulture. It earned certifications such as ISO, BRC, IFS, and the Terra Vitis label for responsible winemaking practices.
2009–2015
Acquired by Jean-Claude Boisset and Éric Brousse, the Maison intensified its commitment to sustainability. In 2015, it achieved AFAQ 26000 Level 3 certification for excellence in environmental and social responsibility.
2016–2023
Under Étienne Maffre’s leadership since 2018, the Maison has balanced performance with sustainability. In 2023, it became the flagship winery of the Boisset Family for crafting premium Rhône Valley wines, earning "Exemplary" recognition for its sustainable practices (AFAQ 26000).
Appellation: Gigondas
Gigondas is a prestigious wine appellation located in the southern Rhône Valley of France, renowned for its bold and structured red wines. Often seen as an alternative to the more famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas wines are celebrated for their richness, complexity, and ability to age beautifully.
Nestled at the foothills of the Dentelles de Montmirail, a striking limestone mountain range, Gigondas offers dramatic landscapes and ideal conditions for viticulture.
The production in Gigondas is almost entirely red wine (99%), with a small percentage of rosé:
Grenache: The dominant grape, making up at least 50% of any blend. It provides ripe red fruit flavors and body.
Syrah and Mourvèdre: Often blended with Grenache, these grapes add structure, spice, and color.
Other Varieties: Small amounts of Cinsault and other Rhône varieties may be included.
Tasting notes
APPEARANCE
Clarity: clear
Intensity: deep
Colour: ruby
NOSE
Condition: clean
Intensity: medium +
Aromas: primary – strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, violet, black pepper.
Development: developing
PALATE
Sweetness: dry
Acidity: high
Tannins: high
Alcohol: high
Body: full
Flavour intensity: medium +
Flavour characteristics: primary,
secondary and tertiary – strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, violet, black pepper, dried herbs, vanilla, smoke.
Finish: long
CONCLUSION
Quality level: very good
Grape varieties: Grenache noir, Syrah
Service Temperature: 13° to 15°C
Ageing potential: 8 years
Food & Wine Pairings: Duck, beef, ratatouille, risotto.