2018 domaine georges vernay, condrieu, coteau de vernon
Why We're Buying
Domaine Georges Vernay has outdone itself with this offering from Coteau de Vernon. The borderline perfect wine is citrusy, zesty, and dripping with finesse. It has the estate's trademark balance and focus, making it worthy of any investor's cellar. Wine critic Jeb Dunnuck gave the 2016 vintage a 99-point rating, saying, "It's a heavenly Condrieu I wish every reader could taste."
Critics Scores
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2018 Condrieu Coteau De Vernon is more backward and mineral-laced compared to the showier Les Chaillées De L'Enfer. Gorgeous notes of white flowers, honeyed citrus, nectarines, gunflint, and charcoal all emerge from this incredible wine. Taking plenty of air to show at its best (I followed this for multiple days), it's medium to full-bodied and has a flawlessly balanced mouthfeel, beautiful acidity, and a gorgeous finish. This is one of those wines that demands something from the taster and is subtle, nuanced, and beautifully complex while remaining regal and classy. The Romanée-Conti of Condrieu, I would give bottles another year and drink through 2026. It can be cellared longer, if that's your style.
Vinous
Brilliant straw. Highly perfumed, mineral-driven orchard and pit fruit scents, along with hints of saffron, violet, candied orange zest and honey. Sappy and seamless on the palate, offering deeply concentrated peach and pear nectar, lemon curd and candied ginger flavors underscored by a vein of dusty minerality. Finishes extremely long and smooth, with lingering floral character and an emphatic whiplash of smoky minerals.