Condrieu 2016

As of 1976, Mr Bernard travelled throughout the Rhône Valley in search of exceptional winegrowers producing wines of great authenticity and true to their terroir. Since then, close partnerships have been established with more than 20 respected vineyard owners. 40 years later, the Louis Bernard spirit is still alive and has been given a new inspiration thanks to a young and dynamic team established in the village of Gigondas. Generous, convivial, accessible are the descriptions that come to mind when discovering these inspiring wines. Grapes are entirely hand-harvested and placed in small 10 to 20 kg crates. On their arrival at the winery, they are immediately placed in a pneumatic press to extract only the first juice. The fermentation lasts for 15 to 20 days at controlled temperatures (max.18°C). The wine is then aged for 8 months in oak with regular stirring.

Located on the right bank of the Rhône, the vineyards of Condrieu spread over about 150 ha. The topography of the vineyards, established on very sharp slopes, allows only manual cultivation. Only Viognier. This is a vigorous vine that perfectly expresses the granitic soil of its land and the sunshine it enjoys. Average yield 40 hl/Ha.

Heady top notes of vanilla, brioche and smoke seep into concentrated yellow apple and grapefruit. Full bodied and just a touch warming, it's an open, generous wine freshened by a mineral lift on the finish.