Condrieu

On November 1, we made our way up to the northern Rhone Valley, home to Syrah and Viognier. This particular picture was taken at our picnic lunch spot while gazing over the windswept vineyards of Condrieu. It was an overcast, brisk day with a persistant bone chilling wind cutting through the hillsides. As we snacked on baguette, fromage, and saucisson, for a brief moment, caught a glimpse of the rugged and and somewhat hostile terroir. Like the surrounding Viognier vines, we huddled together for warmth, desparately seeking any flicker of diffuse sunlight, clinging as close to the hillside as gravity would allow, stuggling for our very existence. (O.K., maybe I'm getting a little carried away here). Nonetheless, we felt the presence Condrieu's soul that day. And it was beautiful.

Tasting Note: 2006 George Vernay Coteau du Vernon Condrieu

Initally, vibrant aromas of fresh honey, baked apple, poached pears. Beautifully custardy nose - creme brulee and carmelized sugar with a hint of spice. On the second pour, the nose drips of liquid mineral, kumquat, and slight honeysuckle. On the third pour, orange zest. The palate is sensual - glycerous and mouthcoating with gorgeous acidity in the background. Lots of acid and spice on the finish. This wine is beautiful, amazingly balanced, with nothing out of place. Sexy, luscious, layered and complex.

Tasted on a chilly November 3rd, 2008.


Tasting Note: 2007 Cuilleron Le Petit Cote Condrieu

Light gold in color. Steely, and fruity with a burnt/toasted woodiness. This is made in a different style than the Vernay. It's tighter and not nearly as luscious or harmonious. It is as the new oak is masking the fruit's personality. Heat and toasted oak on finish. I'd be interested to see if this becomes more integrated with another year in bottle. This would be an excellent intro to a fresh/crisp style Condrieu with a little less new wood.

Tasted on a chilly November 4, 2008.