Domaine Georges Vernay - Maison Rouge - Côte-Rôtie 2016
Price: $125.00
| Producer | Domaine Georges Vernay |
| Country | France |
| Region | Rhône |
| Subregion | Côte-Rôtie |
| Varietal | Syrah |
| Vintage | 2016 |
| Sku | 2308 |
| ABV | 12.50% |
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Georges Vernay … a name spoken with reverence by those who love the wines of the Northern Rhône. The wines from this estate are among the most celebrated in France; one of the premier producers in the country, mentioned in the same breath as Romanée Conti, Selosse, Dagueneau and Lafite Rothschild: the crème de la crème.
The efforts of Francis Vernay were instrumental in the creation of the official Condrieu appellation in 1940. In later years, Francis was succeeded by his son Georges, who played a key role in restricting the geographical boundaries of Condrieu, preserving the character of the appellation and ensuring its future greatness. Georges earned the nickname "Mr. Viognier" and the "Pope of Condrieu" for his pioneering work in the appellation.
Since 1996, the estate has been in the hands of Georges Vernay’s daughter, Christine, who has managed to further elevate the (already lofty) standing of this famous domaine with her wine making acumen, deft hand in the cellar and commitment to tradition, history and quality. She has nothing short of a Midas Touch.
The George Vernay Maison Rouge is 100% Syrah from 50-year-old vines on a slope too steep to mechanise. The grapes are partially destemmed and fermented in barrel for three to four weeks, then aged for 24 months in oak (30% new). Haunting aromas and flavors of dark fruits, oriental spices, smoke, liquorice, cigar-boxes, chocolate, and black pepper. Structured and perfectly balanced, it is as sensuous and full-bodied as it is spicy and enchanting. The tannins are assertive, but the mastery of its vinification creates an exceptionally silky, velvety palate. It is a wine of intensity, elegance, harmony, and sensuality
