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
Plot located on the upper slopes of the village of Condrieu, on granite soils. These vines, situated above 300 meters in altitude, were excluded from the Condrieu AOC following a revision of the appellation boundaries.
Terroir
Planting density: 7,000 vines per hectare.
In the vineyard
The steep and rugged terrain makes all mechanization impossible. The vineyard is naturally grassed and maintained manually with a hoe and winch. The estate is certified Organic (Ecocert) and applies biodynamic preparations (Maria Thun cow manure compost, 500, 501). Pruning is carried out using the Simple Guyot method.
Harvest
Manual harvest at full ripeness, using 20kg crates.
Winemaking
Whole-cluster direct pressing, followed by cold static settling and fermentation on fine lees.
Ageing
Aged for 10 months in 20hl wooden truncated-cone vats, with no new oak.
Varietal
Viognier : 100%
Specifications
Age of vines : 20 years old
Serving
Serving temperature: 12°C
Ageing potential
3 to 5 years
Tasting
This Viognier displays remarkable aromatic complexity, rivaling some of the finest wines of Condrieu. The nose is charming and opens with aromas of peach, apricot, and hazelnut. On the palate, it is both indulgent and fresh, finishing with lovely length.
Food pairings
This wine pairs beautifully with curry chicken, sole meunière, or rabbit in mustard sauce. Serve at around 12°C.
