Yves Cuilleron Condrieu La Petite Cote / 2013 / 375mL

Description:

Origin: south/southeast-facing vines in terraces overlooking the village of Chavanay. “La Petite Côte” is not a district but a cuvée brand.

Soils: muscovite-rich granite.

Varieties planted: viognier.

Cultivation: high-density planting (8,000-10,000 vines per hectare). No insecticides or pesticides, few treatments (depending on weather), small amount of organic-only fertiliser, with respect of soil and vine balance. Vigour and yield control, leaf-thinning and green harvesting to promote grape maturation. 

Vinification: the grapes are hand-picked and sorted, then pressed and left to settle. Alcoholic-fermented in barriques, no racking, regular stirring. Malolactic fermentation also done in barriques, with native yeasts.

Maturing: 9 months in barriques, on the lees, no racking.

Alcohol content: 13%.

Output: approx. 26,000 bottles.

Style: an exuberant nose with typical Viognier aromas of extremely ripe peaches and apricots, and violet notes. On the palate: balanced, rounded and fresh, with a long fruity finish.

Ageing: drink "on the fruit” up to 3-4 years.

Food match: delicate fish (e.g. carpaccio of marinated salmon and bream).