Presentation
The Domaine Georges Vernay, founded in 1937 by Francis Vernay in Condrieu, is an emblematic estate of the northern Rhône Valley. Pioneer in the plantation of Viognier on the Coteau de Vernon, Francis launched the first mythical cuvée «Coteau de Vernon». His son, Georges Vernay, took over the torch in 1953, playing a crucial role in safeguarding the Condrieu appellation and the Viognier grape variety, which earned him the title of «Pope of Condrieu». Since 1996, Christine Vernay, third generation, has been running the estate with passion, extending the vineyard to 24 hectares spread over the appellations Condrieu, Côte-Rôtie and Saint-Joseph. Under his direction, the estate has obtained certification in organic viticulture and applies the principles of biodynamics, producing wines recognized for their elegance and complexity.
Location
Parcel located at the lieu-dit "Sainte-Agathe" in the heart of the Condrieu village.
Terroir
Planting density: 7,000 vines per hectare.
In the vineyard
The steep terrain makes any mechanization impossible. The vineyard is grass-covered naturally and maintained manually with pickaxe and winch. Certified organic (Ecocert) and managed biodynamically, with applications of Maria Thun cow manure compost and BD 500 & 501 preparations. Vines are pruned using both Cordon de Royat and single Guyot methods.
Harvest
Manual harvesting at full maturity, with grapes collected in 20kg crates.
Winemaking
Fermentation in stainless steel tanks with 100% destemmed grapes. Maceration lasts 2 to 3 weeks, with gentle punch-downs and pump-overs depending on tastings.
Ageing
12 months in barrels, no new oak used.
Varietal
Syrah : 100%
Specifications
Age of vines : 40 years old
Serving
Recommended temperature: 14–16 °C
Ageing potential
2 to 3 years
Tasting
Sainte-Agathe is a beautifully expressive Syrah with a vibrant bouquet of red fruits that carries through on the palate with delicious generosity. The mouthfeel is broad and fleshy on the attack, with a lingering finish highlighted by spice, especially fresh black pepper. A wine both seductive and characterful, combining elegance and intensity.
Visual appearance
Deep ruby with purplish highlights.
At nose
Expressive red fruit aromas, subtle spice.
On the palate
Ample, juicy, with silky tannins and a peppery, persistent finish.
Food pairings
A perfect match for a mixed hot stone grill (pierrade) featuring beef, veal, and duck — the wine’s spice and texture complement grilled meats beautifully.
