2009 Condrieu Clos Boucher
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
While very good, this classic Condrieu must take a back seat to the 4,000-bottle cuvee of 2009 Condrieu Clos Boucher, which ranks alongside Guigal's Condrieu La Doriane. The Clos Boucher possesses a light gold color as well as a stunning bouquet of marmalade, apricot jam, white flowers, lychee nuts and honeysuckle. A rare, extraordinary minerality gives a laser-like focus to this enormously endowed white wine. It admirably demonstrates why Condrieu can offer such a singular drinking experience. Under the inspired leadership of winemaker/administrator Jacques Grange, who has carte blanche authority from the proprietors, the Louis Roederer/Deutz Champagne firm, Delas has been on a fabulous qualitative roll for over a decade. They have enjoyed some great successes, so it is hard to say 2009 may be the magnum opus of Jacques Grange, but it certainly looks fabulous. Importer: Maison Marques et Domaines, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 587-2000
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Green-tinted yellow. Fresh nectarine on the nose, with notes of orange peel, violet and smoky herbs adding complexity. Juicy and plump, showing energetic citrus and pit fruit flavors and a strong touch of anise. Minerality builds with air and adds focus to this deeply concentrated but lithe wine, which closes on a strong spicy note and with excellent length.
Very pale gold. Light, slightly chalky apricot and white peach notes. Tense and lightly viscous/creamy with a fine balancing almond-kernel bitterness adding freshness to the long finish. Finishes savoury, almost chalky, and nicely dry with no excess weight or heat. Youthful and tight. Intense minerality sings all the way through. (JH)