2023 Condrieu Les Terrasses de l'Empire
Buying options
Tasting notes
Highly aromatic on first approach, with classic Viognier aromas of jasmine, honeysuckle, peach, and tangerine peel. Faint toasted hazelnut and crème brulee support in the background. Rich and round on the palate, powdery minerality lifts the wine along with a slight bitter almond note on the palate. The acidity is fresh and nervy, running through the core of the body and providing ample structure that supports the high-toned aromatics and lush mouthfeel. Despite being so perfumed, there is nimble quality to the wine, with an incredibly fresh finish – just delicious!
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Nicolas Greinacher, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Condrieu Les Terrasses De L'Empire is gorgeous, with grilled peach, musky orange, mineral, and floral-like aromatics and flavors. These carry to a medium to full-bodied Condrieu that's beautifully balanced, has a layered mouthfeel, and outstanding length. Drink bottles over the coming 7-8 years. Drink 2025-2033.
A well-driven, composed and lively Condrieu with aromas of white peaches, apples, lemon leaves, white flowers and some wild herbs, Medium-bodied with freshness at its core. Juicy and tactile, with a delicate texture and a very long, flavorful finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
Intoxicating aromas and flavours of lemon blossom, jasmine, honeysuckle, ripe peach and apricot juice. There's some oiliness but it's held in balance by fairly refreshing acidity. This is very poised for Condrieu, and it may last longer than I have estimated. (JRL)
About the producer
A legendary name, Domaine Georges Vernay crafts some of the finest whites in the world, having championed Condrieu when it was on the brink of extinction. The estate is best known for its single-site Coteau de Vernon Condrieu and is now in the hands of the third and fourth generation of the family.