Like the Les Chaillées de l'Enfer, the 2019 Condrieu Coteaux du Vernon spent a year in a mix of foudres and barriques, about 20% of which were new. Marked by attractive, complex notes of narcissus, honey and gingery spice, it's medium to full-bodied, fleshy and expansive on the palate without going overboard, and it seems to have seamlessly absorbed any oak influence, finishing long, with echoes of citrus and spice.

100% Viognier - Attractive yellow robe; the nose is reserved, enticing, gives a fine stream of pineapple, aniseed, fennel, herbal notes. It exudes a quiet class, pedigree, will open surely and gradually, varying as it goes. The palate bears elegant, fluent richness, which continues unhindered into the measured, rounded finish, grip there. It’s a harmonious, stylish Vernon, a note of emphasis late on from the degree. It always carries this sense of silk. The juice lasts with appealing persistence. The balance is good, even with the ripe context of the season. Tasted in June 2021.