2012 Julien Pilon Condrieu Lone Viognier

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$70 (retail) Wine Club pricing reflected in receipt

In November 2013, The Wine Spectator’s editor in Europe, James Molesworth, wrote a piece about emerging winemakers in the Northern Rhône.  Here’s what he had to say about Julien Pilon who started making wine on his own in 2010:

Pilon started by buying grapes but has since added 10 acres of rented parcels to his portfolio in order to gain better control over viticulture and quality. And after starting with just white wines, he has added some red as well. Pilon is growing quickly—after making 1,400 cases of eight different wines in 2011, he jumped to 2,333 cases and 13 different wines in 2012. He hasn’t set any specific limits either.

“I don’t really know,” he answered with a half-chuckle when I asked him where he wants to top out at. “The ideal is to have a balance between producing and staying in control of everything, while enjoying life. Maybe that’s around 2,500 cases. But then again, it’s hard to say ‘No’ to clients if they like your wine and want more. So, we’ll see.

“The main thing I want to develop though is the sourcing,” said Pilon. “I want to control the viticulture, rather than just buy grapes. So I’m looking for places where I can plant my own vineyards, as well as rented parcels where I can do the viticulture.”

Wine Spectator Tasting Notes (92 Points):  “Fennel, green almond, green fig and pear notes weave together, framed by a pronounced stony edge that keeps the bright, floral-infused finish tightly focused. A young domaine to watch. Drink now through 2017. 35 cases imported.”  James Molesworth

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