Condrieu Wines

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M.Chapoutier - "Invitare" Condrieu white 2021

M.Chapoutier : "Invitare" Condrieu white 2022

Rhone Valley - Condrieu - White Wine -

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- 40.00€ / bottle

€40.00 Or €40.00 / bottle

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Wine Advocate 89

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Jean-Michel Gérin : Condrieu la Loye 2020

Jean-Michel Gérin : Condrieu la Loye 2023

Rhone Valley - Condrieu - White Wine -

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- 49.50€ / bottle

€49.50 Or €49.50 / bottle

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Delas : "Clos Boucher" Condrieu blanc 2019

Rhone Valley - Condrieu - White Wine -

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- 55.00€ / bottle

€55.00 Or €55.00 / bottle

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J. Suckling 95/100

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Domaine Georges Vernay - Condrieu Les Terrasses de l'Empire 2020

Domaine Georges Vernay : Condrieu "Les Terrasses de l'Empire" 2022

Rhone Valley - Condrieu - White Wine -

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- 64.00€ / bottle

€64.00 Or €64.00 / bottle

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Domaine Georges Vernay : Condrieu "Les Terrasses de l'Empire" 2021

Rhone Valley - Condrieu - White Wine -

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- Bottle (75cl)

- 67.00€ / bottle

€67.00 Or €67.00 / bottle

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Domaine Georges Vernay - Condrieu Les Terrasses de l'Empire 2020

Rhone Valley - Condrieu - White Wine -

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- 69.00€ / bottle

€69.00 Or €69.00 / bottle

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J. Robinson 16,5

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Domaine Georges Vernay : Condrieu "Les Chaillées de L'Enfer" 2020

Rhone Valley - Condrieu - White Wine -

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- Bottle (75cl)

- 95.00€ / bottle

€95.00 Or €95.00 / bottle

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Domaine Georges Vernay - Condrieu "Les Chaillées de L'Enfer" White 2018

Domaine Georges Vernay - Condrieu "Les Chaillées de L'Enfer" 2022

Rhone Valley - Condrieu - White Wine -

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- Bottle (75cl)

- 95.00€ / bottle

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Condrieu: The White Jewel of the Rhône Valley

Discover Rhône Valley’s vinous treasure, Condrieu, celebrated for its exceptional whites made from the Viognier grape. Delve into the history, characteristics, and secrets of these rare, sought-after wines.

Nestled in the northern Rhône Valley, Condrieu is renowned for its distinctive white wines. With a rich history, limited production, and exceptional aromatic complexity, Condrieu wines stand out for their finesse. This article provides a deep dive into Condrieu’s origins and what makes these wines so special.

What is Condrieu?

The Condrieu AOC: An Introduction

The Condrieu AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée), established in 1940, is renowned for exclusively producing white wines made from Viognier. Located in the Rhône-Alpes region of northern Rhône Valley, it covers about 110 hectares.

Viognier: The Soul of Condrieu

Viognier is the sole grape variety allowed in Condrieu, famed for its intense aromas of white peach, apricot, and delicate floral notes of violet. Though nearly extinct in the 1950s, Viognier was revived by dedicated vintners, and today, it is known for producing highly aromatic, refined wines.

The History of Condrieu

Ancient Origins

Condrieu’s vineyards trace back to Roman times, with vines first introduced in the region long ago. It wasn’t until the 19th century, however, that Condrieu wines gained recognition beyond their home region.

The Viognier Revival

In the 1950s, Viognier was at risk of disappearing, but its resurgence in the 1980s brought Condrieu back onto the international wine scene. This revival owes much to the efforts of passionate vintners who breathed new life into this historic grape.

The Geography and Climate of Condrieu

Condrieu’s Unique Terroir

Perched on steep slopes overlooking the Rhône, Condrieu benefits from an exceptional terroir. The granite soils combined with a continental climate and Mediterranean influences create ideal conditions for cultivating Viognier.

Climate’s Impact

Condrieu’s climate of hot summers and cold winters is crucial for the wines’ aromatic development. Cool northern winds allow for slow, even ripening, enhancing the richness and complexity of the wines.

Characteristics of Condrieu Wines

Aromas and Flavors

Condrieu wines are celebrated for their aromatic complexity, showcasing intense notes of white peach, apricot, and pear, along with floral violet and mineral hints. On the palate, they offer a round, creamy texture balanced by a refreshing acidity, often finishing with honey and vanilla notes.

A Delicate Tasting Experience

The golden hue of Condrieu wines, sometimes with greenish reflections, preludes a rich sensory experience. Their velvety texture and subtle acidity create a balanced freshness that enhances the overall tasting experience.

Condrieu Wine Production

Winemaking Methods

Condrieu wines are crafted with traditional techniques, with hand-harvested grapes at peak ripeness to capture full aromatic potential. Fermentation takes place in barrels or stainless steel, followed by aging on fine lees to add complexity and richness.

Yields and Limited Production

With limited vineyard area and strictly controlled yields, Condrieu produces a small annual output, ensuring consistently high-quality wines.

Viognier and Condrieu: A Perfect Symbiosis

A Singular Variety

Viognier is almost exclusively grown in Condrieu, apart from a few exceptions like Côte Rôtie. This challenging grape requires special care, rewarding vintners’ efforts with expressive wines full of character.

The Challenges of Growing Viognier

Viognier’s sensitivity to climate and disease poses challenges, but Condrieu vintners have mastered this craft, producing wines that fully express this unique grape’s potential.

Vintage Variations and Their Impact on Condrieu Wines

Top Condrieu Vintages

Vintage quality plays a critical role in Condrieu wines. Certain years, like 2015, 2017, and 2020, are particularly prized for ideal climatic conditions that yielded perfectly ripe grapes.

Climate’s Influence on Vintages

Climate variations impact Condrieu’s concentration, acidity, and structure. Cold winters followed by mild springs and warm summers often create ideal conditions for exceptional vintages.

Food Pairing with Condrieu

What Foods Complement Condrieu?

Condrieu pairs beautifully with seafood, fatty fish, poultry in creamy sauces, and aged cheeses. Its aromatic richness and creamy texture balance well with complex, delicate flavors.

Ideal Recipes with Condrieu

Perfect pairings include grilled salmon with hollandaise, creamy chicken with morels, or a cheese platter featuring brie, camembert, and Roquefort.

How to Serve and Enjoy Condrieu

Optimal Serving Temperature

Serve Condrieu at 10-12°C to fully appreciate its rich aromatics while preserving its freshness.

Glasses and Tasting Techniques

Tulip-shaped white wine glasses enhance Condrieu’s aromas. Allow the wine to breathe slightly to release its bouquet before tasting.

When to Enjoy Condrieu

Best Enjoyed Young

Condrieu wines are often enjoyed within three to five years of their vintage to capture their vibrant, fruity aromas. However, some vintages can age longer, developing more complex aromas and a smoother texture.

Special Occasions

Perfect for celebrations, fine dining, or shared tastings, Condrieu’s rarity and quality make it a top choice for memorable moments.

Condrieu Wine Storage

Tips for Proper Storage

For optimal aging, store Condrieu in a cool, dark place with controlled humidity. A wine cellar at a steady 12°C is ideal.

Storage Duration

While most Condrieu wines are enjoyed young, they can be aged 5-10 years or more in exceptional vintages, developing notes of dried fruit, honey, and spices for a different tasting experience.

Condrieu Winemakers: Artisans of Wine

Meeting Local Vintners

Condrieu vintners are dedicated artisans who pass down their expertise through generations. Many open their doors for visits and tastings, sharing their passion and knowledge.

Notable Domains

Renowned names like Georges Vernay, Yves Cuilleron, and François Villard have played key roles in Viognier’s revival and continue to uphold Condrieu’s reputation for excellence.

Buying and Choosing Condrieu

How to Choose a Condrieu

When buying Condrieu, consider the vintage, producer, and storage conditions. Experts recommend recent vintages for immediate enjoyment or older ones for longer aging.

Where to Buy Quality Condrieu

Purchase directly from producers, specialized wine shops, or reputable online sources. Verify provenance and storage conditions to ensure quality.

FAQ on Condrieu Wines

Why are Condrieu wines expensive? Condrieu’s high price is due to limited production, challenging vineyard conditions, and Viognier’s premium quality.

What’s the difference between Condrieu and Côte Rôtie? Condrieu produces only Viognier-based whites, while Côte Rôtie is primarily red, using mostly Syrah with up to 20% Viognier for blending.

Can Condrieu be aged? Yes, some vintages can age for 5-10 years, developing complex flavors, though most are enjoyed young to retain their fresh aromas.

Conclusion

Condrieu wines are Rhône Valley treasures, appreciated for their unique character, aromatic complexity, and finesse. Made from Viognier, they offer an exceptional tasting experience, perfect for special occasions or enhancing a wine collection. Condrieu is a delightful choice for lovers of exceptional whites.