2016 Condrieu Jeanraude
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Tasting notes
Brought up in both 228- and 600-liter barrels, the 2016 Condrieu Jean Raude is another ripe, rounded, ready-to-go effort that has classic notes of ripe peach, honeyed citrus, and marmalade. It's rounded, supple, sweetly fruited and downright charming, and ideal for drinking over the coming 2-3 years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
Perplexing hints of copper hue and notes of bruised apple appear on the nose of the 2016 Condrieu Cuvée Jeanraude. Despite that, I found a lot to enjoy in this cuvée, ostensibly Merlin's top Condrieu. It's medium to full-bodied, rich and silky in texture, with a long, peppery finish. If this was just an off bottle, my rating will appear conservative.
Pale green-hued yellow. Intensely perfumed aromas of fresh orchard and pit fruits are enlivened by lemon pith, honeysuckle and smoky mineral flourishes. Gently sweet, palate-staining peach, melon and poached pear flavors show a suave floral quality and a touch of fennel. Finishes silky and broad, displaying a resonating floral note and excellent persistence.
About the producer
François Merlin is one of the most exciting names in the Northern Rhône today, producing elegant Syrah and Viognier.