Andre Perret Condrieu Coteau du Chery 2018 750ml

Another terrific Condrieu from one of the appellation’s acknowledged masters, the 2018 Condrieu Chery offers up floral scents alongside hints of crushed stone, a dusting of dried spices, and ripe apricot and melon notes. It’s full-bodied and fleshy on the palate yet only weighs in at 14% alcohol. Long, refreshing and harmonious from start to finish, it’s just a pleasure to drink, ending on gentle, lingering notes of stone dust.

• Country: France
• Region: Rhone Valley
• Appellation: Condrieu
• Size: 750ml
• Color: White

Varietal

Viognier

Although primarily associated with the Rhone region of France, the precise origins of the Viognier grape variety are unknown, and the subject of much debate. However, these fine and delicate green skinned grapes are an important varietal for many of France’s most elegant white wines, and they are quickly beginning to spread around the New World, too, where wineries are discovering their unique qualities and unusual character. Viognier grapes are notoriously difficult to grow, due to the fact they are highly susceptible to mildew, but wineries persevere with them nonetheless, producing wines which are highly aromatic and have a great, fruit-forward character. Their delicate aroma suggests sweetness due to its flowery, sappy nature, but the wine itself generally very dry and crisp, and full of summery, light and refined qualities.