2014 Julien Pilon Condrieu Lone Viognier $54

()

History: “The white wines of Condrieu have enjoyed an excellent reputation for many generations.
The Popes – from the era when they resided in Avignon – were great enthusiasts. In the 16th century, the Chapter of Lyon of the Catholic Church used to serve them to VIP guests. Closer to the present day, legendary French gastronome Curnonsky rated it one the country’s finest white wines. But unfortunately, phylloxera, the Great War and the 1930s economic crash, coupled with growing industrialisation, caused grape-growing in the area to be largely abandoned. Soon there was only 10 hectares (25 acres) under cultivation. The AOC, established in 1940, enabled the vineyards, kept alive by a handful of Viognier devotees, to benefit in the 1980s from the vibrant market upturn in the neighbouring AOCs of Côte Rôtie and Saint-Joseph. The abandoned slopes were replanted, and the low walls have now been rebuilt…”

About the Winemaker: “Julien Pilon worked previously with Pierre-Jean Villa (and before that, in the Languedoc), but started his own label in 2010. High quality, balanced and character-filled wines are the name of the game here. Most of the wines see aging in barrel, but they show classic profiles.” – Wine Advocate

“Wine Spectator” Tasting Notes: 94 Points
“Intense, with layered apricot, white peach, plantain, Cavaillon melon and nectarine flavors that drive through the finish, picking up a citrus oil note for spine. Packed with fruit but not heady. Captivating. Drink now through 2018.”

Blend: 100% Viognier
Alcohol Level: 13%
Cases Produced: 266
Winemaker Name: Julien Pilon
Maturity: Drink Now – 2018

Pairings:  seafood and shellfish, roasted or grilled chicken, spicy flavors and Asian cuisine 

Wine Spectator Points:

Wine Advocate Points:

Alcohol Level: %

Cases Produced:

Winemaker Name: