Rain and mist to start the day, sun in the afternoon. Morning tasting in across the valley in Gigondas with a family of three - delicious wines, wonderful company. A four-course lunch to follow with a creamier, French version of grapefruit baked Alaska for dessert. Next, a quick trip to a brilliant winemaker in nearby Rasteau - wines of pure brilliance, each year full of new ideas and styles; a vin doux naturel I will remember for a long time. A final afternoon tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape with an old favorite - wines of density and power. A drive around the valley for some local photographs, then a simple dinner in town. A trip North tomorrow to the Cote Rotie.
