Château de Saint Cosme - Condrieu 2023

Château de Saint Cosme is the leading estate of Gigondas and produces the benchmark wines of the appellation. The property has been in the hands of the Barruol family since 1490. Louis Barruol took over from his father in 1992 making a dramatic shift to quality and converting to biodynamics in 2010.

Saint Cosme Condrieu is produced from fully-ripened Viognier which Louis Barruol believes is essential to achieving the variety’s full potential. The wine is matured for eight months in used 228-liter barrels and undergoes full malolactic fermentation on fine lees for 12 months.

Saint Cosme Condrieu shows classic aromas and flavors of dried apricot, peach, and orange blossom with fennel, anise, and elderflower. Twelve months of aging on its fine lees in used Burgundian pièce brings texture to the palate. This is a classic Condrieu.

Viognier aged in neutral barrels has a full body and rich texture with medium acidity. It is easily paired with dishes that feature creamy sauces, mild white fish, and roasted pork or chicken.

"Starts off plump and round, with star fruit, pink grapefruit and fennel, and then quickly takes on a restrained, racy edge, with celery seed and blanched almond cruising alongside smoky, salty flintiness. Offers great tension and freshness, with the silky palate still tightly wound. There are touches of acacia and white flowers on the finish. Drink now through 2030. 90 cases imported." - 94 Points, Wine Spectator

"Honeyed citrus, apricot, white flowers, and crushed stone minerality all emerge from the 2023 Condrieu. Medium to full-bodied and beautifully textured on the palate, it shows the rich, supple style of the vintage yet stays balanced and pure. This classic Condrieu will be best enjoyed over the coming 5-7 years. Drink 2025-2032." - 93 Points, Jeb Dunnuck

Producer: Château de Saint Cosme 

Country: France

Region: Rhône Valley

Varietal: Viognier

Appellation: Condrieu

Vintage: 2018

Size: 750ml