Condrieu Chaillees de l'Enfer 2012

A smaller production release that comes from the steep slope just to the south of where the Terrasses de l’Empire comes from, the 2012 Condrieu Les Chaillées de l’Enfer has terrific tangerine, citrus blossom, brioche and subtle apricot aromas and flavors. From vines planted in 1957, and aged 12 months in 25% new French oak, it’s a medium to full-bodied, vibrant, gorgeously pure effort to drink over the coming 2-3 years. Of the three releases, this is the most classic. Christine Vernay is at the top of her game and readers looking for the best Condrieu has to offer need look no further. In addition, the quality of her Cote Roties (she has roughly three hectare in the southern part of the appellation) has skyrocketed recently. This is an estate that, without a doubt, merits your attention and hard-earned money.

Score: 93

Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2014-2017 30 December 2014