2023 E Guigal Condrieu, Northern Rhone

A rocking little Viognier, the 2023 Condrieu reveals rich notes of honeyed peach, tangerine, spice, and flowers. Medium to full-bodied, clean and pure, with nicely integrated oak, it spent 19 months in one-third new oak barrels. Drink bottles over the coming 5-7 years. Drink 2025-2032.

93 points jebdunnuck.com

E Guigal Condrieu from the Northern Rhone is a benchmark expression of Viognier — lush, aromatic and impeccably balanced. Produced by the Guigal family, whose name is synonymous with quality throughout the Rhone Valley, this wine captures the pure essence of Condrieu’s steep, sun-soaked granite terraces. It’s both opulent and poised, a white wine that beautifully balances fragrance, texture and freshness in a way that few regions in the world can replicate.

The fruit comes from several of Condrieu’s best hillside vineyards, where vines grow in weathered granite soils overlooking the Rhone River. The warm southern exposure helps Viognier achieve perfect ripeness, while the altitude preserves its natural acidity. Grapes are hand harvested and fermented in a combination of stainless steel and new French oak barrels. The wine then matures on lees for around 12 months, developing its signature texture and aromatic depth while maintaining a vibrant mineral line.

In the glass it shines with pale gold hues. The aroma is deeply expressive, offering apricot, peach, orange blossom and honeysuckle layered with notes of almond, vanilla and a hint of wet stone. The palate is full and silky, yet wonderfully fresh, with ripe stone fruit, citrus and floral tones carried by lively acidity. There’s a touch of creaminess from lees contact and a long, elegant finish that hums with subtle spice and minerality.

It pairs beautifully with roast chicken, seared scallops, lobster, creamy pasta or dishes featuring aromatic herbs and citrus. It also complements aged cheeses like Comté or soft triple cream varieties. Though enchanting young for its perfume and vibrancy, it will evolve gracefully over a decade, developing honeyed and nutty complexity while retaining its finesse.