News
June 24, 2026
The Expression of Grenache and Syrah: From Freshness to Depth
At Domaine Tourbillon, vine age plays a central role in the construction of our wines. While young vines contribute freshness and immediate pleasure to certain cuvées, old vines form the identity and backbone of our most prestigious appellations: Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
A Precise and Deliberate Parcel-Based Approach
The Domaine Tourbillon vineyard is managed by Benjamin following a rigorous parcel-by-parcel philosophy, taking into account:
- vine age
- grape variety
- soil type and exposure
- the final purpose of each parcel
Our old vines are planted on the terroirs of Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where they fully express the power, complexity and depth expected from these great southern Rhône crus.
Old Vines: A Marketing Tool or a True Impact on Taste?
Young Vines: Fruit, Freshness and Accessibility
Young vines at Domaine Tourbillon provide a more immediate expression of fruit.
In the vineyard
- vines still in their structural development phase
- naturally higher yields
- grapes with bright aromatic profiles
In the glass
Wines from young vines offer:
- fresh red and black fruit aromas
- a supple, generous and well-balanced palate
- excellent drinkability, ideal for wines meant to be enjoyed young
These vines play an essential role in cuvées such as our Plan de Dieu, where freshness and immediate pleasure are key.
Old Vines: The DNA of Our Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape
All old vines at Domaine Tourbillon are over 80 years old, with some reaching up to 125 years. They are exclusively located on our Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape parcels.
In the vineyard
- very deep root systems
- excellent resistance to drought
- naturally low yields
- small, highly concentrated berries
In the glass
Old vines produce wines that are:
- dense and structured
- with ripe, silky tannins
- complex aromatically: black fruits, spices, garrigue, liquorice, mineral notes
- endowed with great ageing potential
They form the backbone of our Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines.
Grape Variety Focus on Old Vines
Grenache – Depth and Natural Balance
On old vines, Grenache reveals:
- generous body
- great length on the palate
- notes of ripe black fruits, sweet spices, sometimes fig or cocoa
It brings controlled power and the soul of these appellations.
Syrah – Structure and Complexity
Old-vine Syrah:
- reinforces structure
- brings notes of pepper, chocolate and liquorice
- refines tannins and aromatic persistence
Complementary Grape Varieties Serving Great Terroirs
Mourvèdre – Strength and Depth
Old-vine Mourvèdre contributes:
- structure
- aromatic complexity
- ageing potential, especially in Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Cinsault – Finesse and Balance
When used with precision, old-vine Cinsault adds:
- suppleness
- freshness
- harmony to the blend
A Clear Philosophy: Highlighting the Intrinsic Qualities of Old Vines in Our Crus
For Benjamin Tourbillon, the choice is clear:
- young vines bring fruit, freshness and accessibility
- old vines are dedicated to Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, to fully express the complexity, depth and longevity of these exceptional terroirs
Conclusion
The Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines of Domaine Tourbillon reflect a family winegrowing heritage patiently built over generations. Thanks to deeply rooted old vines, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault produce powerful, elegant wines that remain true to their terroir.
