Nestled in the tranquil village of Ampuis, in the heart of the northern Rhone region, lies the esteemed Domaine Garon. As one of the oldest wine producers in the area, the Garon family has a deep-rooted connection to the land, having resided in Ampuis since the 15th century. For centuries, they have dedicated themselves to cultivating the finest grapes and producing exceptional wines.
At the helm of the estate are brothers Kevin and Fabien Garon, who joined their father Jean-François in 2003. Since then, they have taken the winery to new heights, combining their expertise with traditional winemaking techniques to produce wines that are a true reflection of the terroir. Kevin explains that every vintage tells a unique story, and the wine captures a piece of that narrative.
With a total of 8.3 hectares of land, the Garons practice organic farming and even use horses to tend to the vines. The steep and perilous slopes of Cote-Rotie require manual labor, but the hard work pays off in the form of wines with distinct character and personality. The Garons strive for a Burgundian style of winemaking, with gentle and extended vinification, resulting in finesse and elegance.
Their Cotes du Rhone "La Part des Vivants" is aptly named, as it represents the wine left to us after the angels take their share. This blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Carignan showcases black fruits, wild berries, and a hint of earthiness, with a refreshing acidity and a saline finish.
"Les Grandes Parcelles," also known as the "baby Cote Rotie," is 100% Syrah sourced from younger vines and declassified fruit. It is a true expression of the Cote Rotie terroir, with intense flavors of dark cherry, small berries, and fine tannins, culminating in a long and balanced finish.
Their signature wine, La Sybarine, is a blend of Syrah from selected plots, aged in old French oak barrels. It boasts aromas of blackberry, strawberry, and violet, with a touch of grilled bacon. On the palate, it is vibrant and powerful, with lush red fruits and blood orange notes, balanced by a dark earthy minerality.
In addition to their renowned red wines, Domaine Garon also produces white wines, including Viognier and Condrieu, which are equally impressive.
Acclaimed wine critic Jeb Dunnuck describes Domaine Garon as a rising star in the Cote Rotie region, with each vintage surpassing the previous one. His high praise for the estate's wines is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Garon family. As you indulge in a glass of their exquisite wine, you can taste the rich history and passion that goes into every bottle. Domaine Garon truly is a treasure of the northern Rhone, and their wines are not to be missed.
