2012 Condrieu Les Chaillées de l'Enfer
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Tasting notes
Planted 1957. Aged in 25% new oak barrels for 12 months. Reductive, flinty sulphide nose plus juicy, satisfying fragrant fruit. Richly textured. (RH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
A smaller production release that comes from the steep slope just to the south of where the Terrasses de l’Empire comes from, the 2012 Condrieu Les Chaillées de l’Enfer has terrific tangerine, citrus blossom, brioche and subtle apricot aromas and flavors. From vines planted in 1957, and aged 12 months in 25% new French oak, it’s a medium to full-bodied, vibrant, gorgeously pure effort to drink over the coming 2-3 years. Of the three releases, this is the most classic.
60-year-old vines. Creamier and richer than their Terrasses de l’Empire with pithy mouthfeel and a warmer finish too. All the Viognier characteristics are here, but the alcohol and oak spice seem more intrusive than with their other cuvées. (RH)
About the producer
A legendary name, Domaine Georges Vernay crafts some of the finest whites in the world, having championed Condrieu when it was on the brink of extinction. The estate is best known for its single-site Coteau de Vernon Condrieu and is now in the hands of the third and fourth generation of the family.