Maison Tardieu-Laurent - Condrieu 2020
Maison Tardieu-Laurent was founded in 1996 by Michel Tardieu and Dominique Laurent, though for many years the business has been the exclusive domaine of the Tardieu family. Today, it is run by Michel, his son, Bastien, and daughter, Camille. When Michel started the business, he would ask the growers he worked with two questions: which producers in the same appellation wines they liked to drink, and if they had some friends or producers with well-located old vines who might be interested to work with him. The result is an extensive network of “partner vignerons” — farmers with whom the family have long-standing relationships, almost all of whom have enviable holdings of old vines in the northern and southern Rhône’s most prestigious appellations. Today, this word of mouth and handshake model is still how the family conducts their business.
Tardieu-Laurent's Condrieu is made from 100% Viognier aged 10 months in new and one year old French oak barrels: Allier, Tronçais and Jupille. Aromas of peach, honeysuckle, vanilla and apricot explode from the glass; classic Condrieu. The palate has a lovely oily texture and bright acidity to complement the intense fruit, spice, mineral and floral flavors that flow into a long, decadent finish. This is a splendid Condrieu, a perfect representation of Viognier's most celebrated appellation.
