Domaine Jamet Condrieu Vernillon 2019
- Decanter
-
Parker
Robert
Product Details
Your Rating
Somm Note
Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
-
Decanter
Now 100% matured in terracotta amphora, which brings 'a saline, mineral side' to the wines, says Loïc Jamet, especially in hot years. Straightness of character from the Côte Chatillon; generosity from the Vernon. Very peachy this year. Very rounded and ripe, but has good depth of fruit. Good acidity for the vintage, gently warming alcohol. Good sense of energy and brightness. Just 14%.
-
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
A remarkably consistent wine since its introduction in 2015, the 2019 Condrieu Vernillon is a bit more honeyed and richer than the 2020, delivering more apricot, white peach and ripe pear flavors. Medium to full-bodied, it's mouth coating, but it avoids being overly rich or heavy, finishing with vibrant, zingy freshness. Best After 2020
Full-figured and charmingly floral, Viognier is one of the most important white grapes of the northern Rhône where it is used both to produce single varietal wines and as an important blending grape. Look for great New World examples from California, Oregon, Washington and cooler parts of Australia. Somm Secret—Viognier plays a surprisingly important role in the red wines of Côte Rôtie in the northern Rhône. About 5% Viognier is typically co-fermented with the Syrah in order to stabilize the color, and as an added benefit, add a subtle perfume.
As the source of some of the most vibrant and powerful white wines in France, Condrieu is uniquely situated in one of the northern outposts of the Rhone River. It is the original Viognier appellation with a wine growing history reaching back well over two thousand years. Like most of the wine regions of the Northern Rhone, Condrieu’s vines grow on extremely steep and narrow granite terraces. But what makes the region unique is a topsoil, locally called, “arzelle,” made of decomposed mica. This and a sheltering of the harsh northern winds, make optimal sites to produce opulent and brilliant Viognier. It is a tiny zone with no room for expansion and produces miniscule amounts of wine each year, contributing to its allure.
A fine Condrieu will have aromas and flavors suggestive of ripe stone fruit, lime peel, green almond, ginger, white flowers and toasted nuts. A honeyed smell may mislead you to think the wine will be sweet but the modern style favors totally dry on the palate. Its texture will be full and soft but a touch of mineral will provide great balance.