2010 Condrieu

The 2010 Condrieu reveals the exotic, lychee nut, tropical fruit side of this appellation, but less minerality than some of the finest examples of Condrieu. Nevertheless, it is a very good effort to enjoy over the next several years. This relatively new negociant operation combines two of the great families of the Rhone Valley, the Perrins in Chateauneuf du Pape and the Jaboulets in the northern Rhone. In this case, it is Nicolas Jaboulet working with the Perrins. Their objective is to produce high quality selections from major northern appellations. Launching a new brand in a difficult economic environment is always risky, but given the resources available to these two families, this should be a brand worth following. Their first releases were from challenging vintages such as 2006 and 2007, and they appear to be hitting their stride with the 2009s and 2010s. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802