Guigal Condrieu 2006

Condrieu is the original home of the Viognier vine, and is the source of one of the world's most exotic white wines. The tiny, parcelated appellation (500 acres total/200 planted) is located on steep hillsides beginning at a bend in the Rhône River just south of Côte Rôtie and continuing intermittently about 12 miles further south. Marcel and Philippe Guigal supplement the production of their own Condrieu vineyards with a small amount of grapes purchased from growers, vinifying the wine in stainless steel (two-thirds) and barrique (one-third). The delicately elusive perfume suggests pears, spice, and honeysuckle, while on the palate the wine is surprisingly rich and full-bodied, a wine equally for the intellect and the senses. Condrieu may be enjoyed as an aperitif, with foie gras, lobster and other rich seafoods, and (some say) white asparagus.