Georges Vernay - Cote Rotie Maison Rouge 2016

"Its ruby hue is followed by a classic Côte Rôtie that has lots of framboise, spring flowers, exotic spice, and some bacon fat. Medium-bodied, elegant, and lively on the palate, it's beautifully made and well worth following over the coming 10-15 years." Jeb Dunnuck

A pioneer in the renewal of the Condrieu appellation, Domaine Georges Vernay has always made wines of unique style, notable for their finesse, elegance and harmony. The property has become a major emblem of Rhone Valley winegrowing, from the time when Georges Vernay saved the Condrieu appellation to the international awards earned by Christine Vernay’s Côte-Rôtie. Three generations have left the mark of the philosophy on the estate, while perpetuating its traditions in the greatest respect for both vines and winegrowers.

In 1996, Christine Vernay took over the family domaine after her father Georges retired. Under her watch, the wines have become even more delicate and nuanced. In addition to world class Viognier, she has been crafting some of the top Côte-Rôtie here, and critics have taken notice. In 2013, Christine was given the prestigious award of "Winemaker of the Year" by Bettane & Dessauve.

Bright and fresh, with lively red currant, bitter cherry and damson plum fruit streaking through, with lovely floral, chalk and savory details throughout. Long, mouthwatering minerality on the finish adds even more energy. Best from 2022 through 2040.

Bright violet. Vibrant, intensely perfumed black and blue fruit aromas are complemented by suggestions of exotic spices, potpourri and smoky minerals. Seamless and precise on the palate, showing intense mineral lift and thrust to the appealingly sweet blueberry, violet pastille, salty olive and spicecake flavors, which deepen on the back half. The mineral note gains strength with air and carries emphatically through a vibrant, focused finish that features discreet tannins and lingering florality. - Josh Raynolds, Vinous

The 2016 Côte Rôtie Maison Rouge saw a touch of the blend vinified in barrels (30% stems). Its ruby hue is followed by a classic Côte Rôtie that has lots of framboise, spring flowers, exotic spice, and some bacon fat. Medium-bodied, elegant, and lively on the palate, it's beautifully made and well worth following over the coming 10-15 years.