Paul Jaboulet Aine 'Les Grands Amandiers' Condrieu showcases the elegance and expressive character that the renowned Viognier grape can achieve on the steeply terraced slopes of the northern Rhone. Crafted with meticulous care by talented winemaker Caroline Frey and her team, this wine is the product of organic and biodynamic viticulture, reflecting a profound harmony with nature and terroir. The estate, known for its dedication to biodiversity and sustainable practices, produces wines which beautifully express the nuances of their origin.
Situated in a mineral amphitheatre bordered by majestic almond trees, the 'Les Grands Amandiers' vineyard is a 3.5-hectare plot on sandy granite soils, providing the perfect setting for Viognier to flourish. The grapes are hand-picked and gently pressed, with fermentation and ageing taking place in concrete eggs and wooden barrels to enhance complexity, texture, and purity. This attention to detail and respect for the land results in a Condrieu of remarkable finesse and depth.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
A brilliant golden straw hue glimmers in the glass, revealing clarity and an inviting luminosity that hints at the wine's vibrancy and freshness.
Nose:
The bouquet is immediately expressive, opening with fresh citrus-think lemon zest and grapefruit-alongside luscious notes of ripe peach and apricot. These fruit aromas are interwoven with lifted white floral scents, such as acacia and honeysuckle, and underscored by a subtle mineral edge that speaks to the granite soils of the estate.
Palate:
On the palate, this Condrieu is at once creamy and precise, marrying a satisfying depth with a lively, zesty energy. Succulent yellow fruits and candied citrus peel are forefront, enriched by a delicate creaminess and lees-derived texture from the unique fermentation vessels. The mineral backbone adds finesse, elegantly balancing the wine's richness with freshness and poise.
Finish:
The finish is vibrant and refreshing, lingering with notes of citrus and apricot supported by subtle floral undertones and a persistent, mouth-watering minerality. This clean and focused conclusion invites another sip, making it a captivating and memorable expression of Viognier from the heart of Condrieu.
