Condrieu Amour de Dieu, Jean Luc Colombo, Northern Rhone, France, 2017 

Grape: 100% Viognier

The vineyards for “Amour de Dieu” are located on the very steep granitic slopes of the Condrieu appellation, with a southern exposure and surrounded by tall oak woods. The grapes, from 40-year-old Viognier vines, are hand-harvested and de-stemmed. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks. Aged sur lie in oak (15% new; 85% in one- to four-year old barrels) for ten months. Weekly stirring of lees followed by malolactic fermentation.

Golden yellow colour with silver nuances. The nose is beautifully complex, with a light oakiness, rich aromas of apricots, peaches, and honeysuckle. The mouth is round and fresh, with an elegant, long finish.

A perfect match for whitefish dishes, as well as boiled or grilled lobster with drawn butter. To be drunk in its youth, or within 4 to 5 years of age. Serve chilled 14°C - 15°C

Rating: 94 Points, Anna Lee, Wine Enthusiast, 31.12.19

“Aromas of toast, vanilla, preserved peach and caramel are heady here, lending flair to orange cream and honey on the palate. It’s rich and unctuous, silky in texture, but fringed by pleasing bitters. A beauty already, it should evolve positively through 2027."