Northern Rhone
Condrieu (孔德里约)

Click to View: Map of Cote-Rotie

This an Appellation located near the village of Condrieu, south of Cote Rotie in France’s northern Rhone region.

Condrieu is to Viognier what the Cote de Nuits is to Pinot Noir. There are now plantings worldwide of Viognier but this pernickety grape’s spiritual homeland is still in Condrieu and this is still where the finest Viogniers in the world are produced.

The appellation was created in 1940 and today over 40 growers produce wine from just over 100 hectares of vineyards. In 1965 the appellation covered only 8 hectares.

Condrieu produces one of the rarest white wines in France (and the world) form one of the most difficult varietals: Viognier. At 110 hectares, Condrieu AC produces only white wines made from the rare variety. In fact, Viognier owes much of its success to ViognierCondrieu, as many believe the best expression of this varietal is found only here.

These dry, rich wines have a perceptible spiciness and aromas and flavors reminiscent of apricots, peaches, and pears. They’re very expensive because they’re quite good and difficult to find.

Grape(s):

Soils:
The vines are on steep, dry, mineral-rich, granitic-sandy slopes that tower high above the river.

From left to right: Granite, and Sand.

Weather Conditions:
This area sees a moderate continental climate, with warm summers and regular rainfall in the other seasons. The area can suffer under the mistral, a strong, cold wind from the north, which can last for several days.

From left to right: Continental Climate, Strong Winds, Warm Summers, and Moderate Rainfall.

Best Producers:
Andre Perret (Les Grisieres)
Christian Facchin
Domaine Georges Vernay (Coteau de Vernon)
Chateau de Saint Cosme
Francois Villard
Gilbert Chirat
Pierre Dumazet
Domaine Faury
Remi & Robert Niero
Chateau Du Rozay
Domaine Christophe Pichon
Domaine Mouton Pere et Fils
Francois Merlin
Gerard Villano
Yves Cuilleron (Les Chaillets)
Yves & Mathilde Gangloff
Jurie Des Camiers/ Domaine Porte-Vincent
Pierre & Marie Benetiere

Further Reading:
A Donkey and Goat
Enjoy Viognier
Mercury News
Terroir France
Vin Condrieu
Wikipedia