Roland Grangier Condrieu Les Terrasses 2016

2016 Roland Grangier Condrieu Les Terrasses

Condrieu is arguably the northern Rhne’s most distinctive wine appellation. Created in 1940, it covers white wines made exclusively from Viognier. In contrast, its larger neighbors (Saint-Joseph, Crzes-Hermitage and Cte Rtie) specialize in robust reds made from Syrah.

Condrieu’s whites strike an unusual balance between delicate perfume and a substantial body. They are produced only in tiny quantities, and only in seven parishes. These are Limony, Chavanay, Malleval, Saint-Michel-sur-Rhne, Saint-Pierre-de-Buf, Verin and Condrieu itself.

Condrieu vineyards lie within a nine-mile stretch of the Rhne Valley on a winding section of the Rhne River. The appellation name derives from a French phrase meaning ‘corner of the stream’. They are typically placed on south- and southeast-facing granite slopes rising steeply from the riverbanks. This orientation enables the vines to obtain maximum warmth and sunlight on the cooler days of spring and autumn. This in turn results in ripe, flavorful wines.