Saint Cosme 'Les Deux Albion' 2022

Originating from France in the southern Rhône Valley region, specifically within the Côtes du Rhône Gigondas zone, Saint Cosme 'Les Deux Albions' represents a historic, benchmark expression of southern Rhône Syrah and Grenache. Crafted by Louis Barruol at Château de Saint Cosme—an estate with winemaking roots dating back to Roman times in 1410—'Les Deux Albions' takes its name from two historic family estates merged by the Barruol family. Sourced from high-elevation vineyards in Gigondas and surrounding terroirs planted on limestone, clay, and stony alluvial soils, the winemaking philosophy utilizes whole-cluster fermentation with native yeasts in concrete vats, followed by aging in concrete vats and wooden casks without heavy oak interference. The result is a deeply expressive, authentic wine characterized by dark fruit density, savory Mediterranean garrigue, and fine limestone structure.

Wine Description

The wine presents an opaque, deep dark ruby red colour with intense purple-garnet reflections along the rim. An expressive, complex bouquet opens with opulent aromas of ripe dark plum, black cherry, wild blackberry, and cassis, interwoven with seductive notes of black pepper, crushed violet, tapenade, dried lavender, liquorice, and roasted coffee bean. On the palate, it is full bodied, dense, and mouth-filling, delivering concentrated flavours of dark berries, red fruit jam, and savory mineral earth, all supported by a bright, mouthwatering spine of natural acidity. Framed by rich, fine-grained limestone tannins and a deep mid-palate structure, it concludes with a remarkably long, persistent finish marked by lingering black fruit, wild herbs, and a chalky mineral grip. Composed primarily of Syrah blended with Grenache, Carignan, Mourvèdre, and Clairette, it combines Gigondas-level structure and density with pure southern Rhône generosity and charm.