Appellation: AOC Condrieu (Northern Rhone region)
Grape: Viognier (100%)
Farming: Organic (Not certified)
Aromatics: Subtle smokiness, complex mix of spice and fruit. Fresh pineapple, mango, caramel, hint of vanilla.
Palate: The aromatics continue on to the palate, with a beautifully fleshy mid-palate and a saline driven, long finish.
About the wine: The Garon's Condrieu is such a great represenation of this appellation. Planted on a steep hill like Cote Rotie, this vineyard is capable of miracles. The wines are aged in mostly old French oak barrels.
When to drink: Drink now or in the next 5 to 8 years.
Service: 12 degrees.
Food match: Spicy Asian food, particularly seafood and shellfish based dishes, or classic roasted pork, with extra crispy crackling.
 
What the critics say: "Top notch, the 2018 Condrieu La Veille Maison has a ripe, sexy profile that carries lots of caramelized citrus, peach, spice and floral notes. Rich and textured on the palate, yet also lively and fresh, drink it over the coming 3-5 years."
Jeb Dunnuck, 94 points