# Condrieu Les Terrasses de l'Empire (2020)

- **Producer:** Domaine Georges Vernay
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Viognier
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €60
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–14 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blossom, peach, apricot, honeysuckle, vanilla, cloves, dried apricot, honey, almond

## About this wine

Condrieu Les Terrasses de l'Empire 2020 is a dry white wine from the AOC Condrieu in the Northern Rhône Valley, produced by Domaine Georges Vernay. This historic estate, managed by the Vernay family for four generations, is renowned for its role in reviving the Condrieu appellation. The wine is crafted from 100% Viognier, grown on steep, granite slopes. The estate is committed to organic viticulture, with vines averaging 30-35 years in age. 'Les Terrasses de l'Empire' is considered a classic representation of the appellation's potential.

## Interesting facts

- Georges Vernay is credited with saving the Condrieu appellation from near extinction.
- Vines at Domaine Georges Vernay average 30-35 years old.
- The estate practices certified organic farming.
- The name 'Les Terrasses de l'Empire' hints at the historical significance of the vineyard sites.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and rich texture complement creamy sauces and richer seafood. Its aromatic profile and subtle minerality can bridge to earthy flavors like mushrooms and herbs, while its good acidity cuts through richness.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Condrieu Les Terrasses de l'Empire begins with whole cluster direct pressing of the Viognier grapes. Fermentation takes place in wooden tanks and older Bordeaux barrels. The wine is then aged for 8 months on its lees in wooden vats and barrels, with some bâtonage performed to enhance texture. The estate employs certified organic farming practices and manual vineyard work.