2011 Condrieu

(made from fruit grown in Malleval and Chavanay; barrel-fermented but with "a minimum of new oak"): Pale yellow. Highly perfumed aromas and flavors of candied orchard and citrus fruits, with floral and spice flourishes and a hint of smoky minerals. Suave and rich without excess fat. Sappy and precise, with impressive finishing cut and length. According to Gaillard, "Malleval gives the minerality and Chavanay gives the fruit and the flesh."

Gaillard also produced two 2011 Condrieus, both of which I thought were noteworthy efforts. Made in a lighter style, the medium-bodied 2011 Condrieu l’Octroi exhibits fresh honeysuckle, white peach and lychee nut characteristics along with good acidity and a fresh, zesty mouthfeel. Enjoy it over the next few years. Two cuvees of St.-Joseph are produced, including Les Pierres (which comes from stony soils) and the Clos de Cuminaille (which is a true “Clos”). Importer: North Berkeley Wine Imports, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 336-9880