Georges Vernay "Les Chailles de l'Enfer" Condrieu 2016

Hard to believe now, but in the 1960s there were fewer than 15ha of Viognier planted in the whole world – thanks to Georges Vernay the fortunes of the grape slowly revived. From a 2ha parcel planted in 1957 and aged for 12-18 months in 25% new oak, this is exceptional, concentrated, and powerful but still very balanced. Very aromatic, with peach, apricot, white flowers, biscuit, dough, smoke, and sweet spice followed by a grainy palate lifted by refreshing acidity. Superb.