Yves Cuilleron Petite Cote Condrieu 2018

Yves Cuilleron took over the domaine from his uncle in 1987, with just 3.5ha of vineyards in Condrieu and Saint Joseph. Since then he has expanded to produce fine wines in all of the Northern Rhone's great appellations, following his own exacting method in the vineyard and winery - taking elements from organic, biodynamic and precision viticulture without wholly subscribing to one philosophy. In his own words it is all about producing 'les meilleurs raisins possibles' (the best grapes possible). Much of the vineyard is so steep that mechanisation remains impossible.

From a blend of parcels on the muscovite-rich granite soils of Condrieu, La Petite Cote displays the concentrated opulence of Viognier at its very best. Aged for 9 months in used Burgundy barrels, with regular lees-stirring to encourage further richness and complexity, combining with the ripeness of the 2018 vintage for a very full-bodied white wine.

Aromatically beguiling, with rose, lilac and lavender florals, peach, apricot and tangerine fruit and a hint of baking spices on the nose. On the palate is broad but dry, with stone and orchard fruit, lovely spicy grip and finishes fresh, firm and mineral. A stunning wine now showing all of its glory after a few years in the cellar.