Wines Condrieu Chéry - 2019

The 2019 Chéry from Condrieu AOC is a quintessential expression of the Viognier grape, the only variety permitted in this prestigious northern Rhône appellation. Sourced from the revered Chéry vineyard, the wine showcases the intense aromatic profile and textural richness typical of top-tier Condrieu. The 2019 vintage benefited from favourable growing conditions, resulting in grapes with optimal ripeness and concentration. Viognier’s delicate skins and tendency to achieve full sugar levels early require careful handling in the vineyard and cellar, often entailing gentle pressing, meticulous temperature-controlled fermentations, and selective use of oak to balance structure and freshness without masking the exuberant fruit and floral notes.

Condrieu itself is one of the Rhône’s most celebrated white wine appellations, perched on steep granite slopes along the right bank of the river. The region’s continental climate, with warm, sunny days and cool nights, enables Viognier to develop its signature aromas of apricot, peach and exotic white flowers while retaining vibrant acidity. The granite soils, sometimes flecked with mica, endow the wines with a mineral backbone and remarkable finesse. With a history dating back to Roman times, Condrieu’s reputation for alluring, hedonistic whites has soared in recent decades thanks to a new generation of dedicated growers.

Given its opulence and aromatic intensity, this Condrieu pairs superbly with refined cuisine. Its lush stone fruit and floral tones make it ideal with lobster in a delicate cream sauce, roast chicken with tarragon, or a classic regional dish of quenelles de brochet (pike dumplings) in a beurre blanc sauce. Mildly spiced Asian dishes and soft, creamy cheeses like Saint-Marcellin also find a perfect match in its supple, aromatic profile.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 10-12°C to highlight its aromatic complexity while maintaining freshness. Decanting for half an hour may help reveal additional layers. Enjoy the Chéry 2019 now for its youthful exuberance or cellar for another two to three years to explore added texture and complexity.