2018 Xavier Gerard Condrieu Côte Chatillon, France, Rhone, Wine Review

Vintage: 
2018
Score: 
93
Grade: 
A
Current Price: 
$61.00USD

Very nice expression of a northern Rhone Viognier.  Deep golden in color, clear and bright.  The nose is perfumed with floral notes as well as peach, slight hay, and slight golden raisin.  Full bodied.  Viscous, slightly oily texture.  On the palate, some waxiness with some pear, slight orange and just a hint of floral notes.  Good acidity.  Dry.  Long finish.  This probably should be drunk in the next few years to enjoy the freshness.  Nice on its own, this would work well with lighter foods but would be nice s well with lobster.  

2019 E. Guigal Condrieu, France, Rhone, Wine Review

Vintage: 
2019
Score: 
92
Grade: 
A-
Current Price: 
$55.00USD

This is the basic Condrieu (they also make a higher end called La Doriane).  It is made from 100% Viognier grapes.  Golden in color, clear and bright.  The nose is nice with floral qualities along with some vanilla and spice.  With air, apricots emerge along with a bit of peach.  Medium to full bodied.  On the palate, the apricots and spice come thru.  A bit of a bitter ginger note on the finish.  This needs a bit of cellaring, maybe two or three years, and then should drink well for five to eight more years.  Very nice on its own, this will work better with food.  Shellfish would be a nice