Les Grands Amandiers Condrieu 2021
Trade Tools
France / Rhône
The Grands Amandiers vineyard is bordered by majestic almonds trees or "amandiers" in French. The South-facing vineyard forms an amphitheater on a 58-percent slope with small, steep terraces held back by low stone walls called "chalais". The 15- to 30-year-old Viognier vines are planted in soil with granite that has degraded into sand. The organic grapes are hand-harvested and pressed as whole bunches. After settling, the wine is fermented primarily in concrete eggs as well as in French oak barrels – 15% of which are new. It is then aged for 3 months on fine lees in the same containers.
93 Points
Wine Advocate
2021 vintage
Harvest Note
The 2021 vintage had a mild winter with an early spring. The early development of vegetation slowed as the temperatures dropped in April. The spring was cool and May had abundant rainfall. Flowering took place rapidly and in good conditions. The summer was also very wet with temperatures below normal, resulting in a delay of veraison and slower maturation. The harvest resulted in grapes with good balance and aromas.
Tasting Note
Pale yellow with silver reflections, this balanced and generous white wine has notes of lemon, nectarine, acacia flower, and lime blossom with crisp acidity and nice length
Technical Data
GRAPES: Viognier (100%)
APPELLATION: Condrieu AOC
PH: 3.46
ACIDITY: 6.2
ABV: 14%
AGING: 3 months on fine lees in concrete eggs and French oak barrels (15% are new)
MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION: No
Unique Selling Points
- Steep 58-percent slope with small stone wall terraces
- Vineyard is certified AB Organic
"What makes a great wine, what makes it inimitable and constant, is the terroir in which it is born."
Caroline Frey, Winemaker
