Domaine Yves Cuilleron Condrieu La Petite Cote

The name already gives it away: we're dealing with the young wine of the great Condrieu Les Chaillets. The young vines receive the winemaker's undivided attention, as they will later nurture the great wine. But let's start at the beginning to talk about the wines of Domaine Yves Cuilleron. The grandfather of the current generation, Yves Cuilleron, had a dream and made it a reality in 1920. The man proved to be a natural talent. From his very first wine, the whole world was a fan. He was considered the most talented winemaker in the Rhone and made a significant contribution to the region. Currently, the youngest generation is at the helm, as namesake Yves took over the winery in 1987. He invested heavily in modern techniques without compromising his grandfather's long-standing traditions. Yes, today, these wines are something to rave about, so incredibly beautiful.

Wood bearing for the Condrieu La Petite Cote

The vineyard, filled with Viognier grapes, is between 15 and 20 years old. It's a truly beautiful vineyard, located in the heart of the appellation on the terraces of the town of Chavanay. The vineyard enjoys a south-southeast exposure, ensuring the bunches receive ample sunshine. The rich soil structure, primarily granite and clay, provides the Viognier grapes with excellent condition. After a long ripening period on the vines, the bunches are harvested by hand. Only the finest bunches are harvested and processed into this premium wine. But before that, this Condrieu La Petite Cote is aged halfway in oak barrels in the Cuilleron cellars. It matures on its own lees, making it powerful and full-bodied. Only 37,000 bottles are produced for the entire world, making this wine quite exclusive.

The smell and taste of the Cuilleron Condrieu La Petite Cote

As a wine lover, it simply makes you very, very happy. The slender bottle invites us in and, after removing the cork, offers a wealth of aromas. We noted nuances of flowers (lily, rose, and violet) and honey. The golden color sparkles beautifully in the glass and has a wonderfully thick structure. What a magnificent wine this Condrieu La Petite Cote from the Domaine Yves Cuilleron winery is! The aroma reveals peach, apricot, vanilla, a lovely smoky aroma, and mineral notes. But also honeysuckle and nuts, caramel, and butter. Flavorful and juicy, intense and balanced, accessible style, length, fruit, and power, fullness, almost honeyed in richness, beautifully balanced.