2012 Condrieu Vertige

The richest and most textured in the lineup, the 2012 Condrieu Vertige comes from a single plot planted in the Coteau de Vernon. Barrel fermented and aged, it delivers impressive aromas and flavors of ripe apricot, tangerine, toast, spice and citrus blossom, with distinct minerality. Medium to full-bodied, with a layered mid-palate and good acidity, it will drink nicely for 4-5 years, possible longer. Yves releases two cuvees from Cornas, and I found the quality consistent in 2012, yet preferred the Vires release by a fair margin in 2011. There are three Saint Joseph cuvees in red: the Les Pierres Seches, which comes from sand and granite soils around the town of Chavanay; the L'Amarybelle, which comes from high density, terraced plantings of older vines; and lastly, the Les Serines, which comes from the oldest vines of the estate and is the only cuvee to see new oak. Importer: Rosenthal Wine Merchant Ltd., Pine Plains, NY; tel. (800) 910-1990