IGP Collines Rhodaniennes: Domaine Georges Vernay 'Sainte-Agathe' 2021
Free next day delivery when you spend £125
A warming Northern Rhône Syrah, Christine Vernay's 'Sainte Agathe' has a bright, black fruit bouquet and a complex and concentrated palate of plums and damson with hints of herbs and a smooth, supple finish. Certified organic.
The 'Sainte-Agathe' from Domaine Georges Vernay hails from a parcel of old vines that border Côte Rôtie, planted within the boundaries of the Condrieu appellation (red Condrieu is not allowed, hence the IGP Collines Rhodaniennes status). This great value Syrah is excellent with roast veal or hard cheeses.
| Style | Red Wine, Sec, Full-bodied, Non Sparkling |
|---|---|
| Wine Region | Rhône, Côtes du Rhône |
| Grape Variety (Cépage) | Syrah |
| Food & Wine Matching | Beef, Casserole, Cheese, Mushrooms |
| Viticulture | Organic |
| Vintage | 2021 |
| Cellarage | Should age well for up to a decade. |
| Alcohol By Volume (%) | 12.5 |
Domaine Georges Vernay
The Vernay name is synonymous with quality Viognier. Christine Vernay's father Georges (1926-2017) was instrumental in keeping the Condrieu appellation from extinction in the 1960s when there were only 8 hectares left under vine! The Vernays have worked tirelessly to promote Viognier and are largely responsible for its current renaissance and newfound global popularity. Christine Vernay took over winemaking responsibilities here in 1997 and is assisted in the management of the estate by her husband Paul Amsellem. Today the Vernays farm 7.5 hecatres of vines at Condrieu, which puts them in the top 3 growers in volume terms (alongside Cuilleron & Guigal). Domaine Georges Vernay is widely regarded as being among the very best sources of Condrieu, they also produce an excellent Vin de Pays Viognier, from higher altitude vines called 'Le Pied de Samson' as well as an impressive range of red wines comprising a fruity Vin de Pays Syrah, Saint Joseph and Côte Rôtie.
"Domaine Georges Vernay is the flagship of Condrieu. Its vines were planted in the AOC in 1936, and it remained the only domaine in Condrieu for many years, until others finally started believing in Viognier. Today, third-generation vintner Christine Vernay runs the estate, crafting whites that are both opulent and pure. Her Côte-Rôties are equally impressive."
James Molesworth - Wine Spectator.
View more wines from this producer...
