2011 Cote Rotie Blonde du Seigneur
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Tasting notes
95% Syrah, 5% Viognier. Rich and perfumed. Subtle red fruit, lovely violet perfume. Soft, lengthy, understated. (RH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
(includes 5% viognier): Inky ruby. Mineral-tinged aromas of blackberry, cherry compote, licorice and violet, plus an exotic apricot nuance. At once weighty and energetic, offering sappy dark fruit flavors and hints of candied violet and spicecake. Smoothly blends power and vivacity, finishing pure, spicy and long, with a bright mineral note.
More interesting, the 2011 Cote Rotie La Blonde du Seigneur is a supple, pure and elegant effort that gives up plenty of bacon, leather and background gaminess to go with a core of kirsch and darker berry fruit. Enjoy it any time over the coming 8-9 years. While easily producing one of the top lineups of Condrieu, this estate is increasingly focusing on high quality reds as well. Importer: Martine’s Wine, Novato, CA; tel. (415) 883-0400
About the producer
A legendary name, Domaine Georges Vernay crafts some of the finest whites in the world, having championed Condrieu when it was on the brink of extinction. The estate is best known for its single-site Coteau de Vernon Condrieu and is now in the hands of the third and fourth generation of the family.