2019 Château Gigognan "Bois des Moines" Côtes-du-Rhône Villages

The 2020 "Bois des Moines" comes from the vineyards surrounding the Gigognan estate. A century ago, these would have been called Chateauneuf du Pape as the soils are all galet (rolled stones) on the surface with limestone and clay underneath. The Bois des Moines is at the southern end of Chateauneuf, but this part was left out when the official designation was established in 1936. That also makes this an incredible value! Truly a baby CDP with its full-bodied texture and dark cherry fruit this blend of 45% Grenache, 45% Mourvedre and 15% Syrah. The Mourvedre adds a meaty savory note that reminds me of that other famous house that also had a parcel left out of the appellation...Beaucastel! Their Coudoulet also has a lot of Mourvedre and was famously overlooked when the appellation boundaries were drawn. Coincidence? I think the Bois des Moines will offer just as much pleasure but for well under $20.