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 in the lieu-dit Boissey, Commune of Chavanay, at the northern edge of the appellation.
Terroir
Planting density: 10,000 vines per hectare.
In the vineyard
The vineyard’s steep, rugged terrain makes mechanization impossible. As a result, spontaneous grassing is allowed, and the vines are tended 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 done using both Simple Guyot and Cordon de Royat methods.
Harvest
Manual harvest at full ripeness, using 20kg crates.
Winemaking
Fermentation in open barrels with 30% whole bunches. Maceration lasts 2 to 3 weeks using a gentle infusion technique.
Ageing
Aged for 24 months in barrels, including 10% new oak.
Varietal
Syrah : 100%
Specifications
Age of vines : 45 years old
Serving
Serving temperature: 15–17°C
Ageing potential
5 to 10 years
Tasting
La Dame Brune comes from old vines over 45 years of age, rooted in the granite slopes of Saint-Joseph. It expresses the finest Syrah characteristics: black fruits, spices, pepper, black olives... all wrapped in a beautiful mineral backbone. Supple from a young age and structured with remarkable finesse, it is a wine to savour for its balance and unique personality, one you’ll want to linger over purely for the pleasure it brings.
Food pairings
Perfect with grilled quail, venison steak (pavé de biche), or a leg of lamb.
