Château-Grillet 2021

Château-Grillet is one of the smallest appellations in France, a single terraced amphitheatre of Viognier held as a monopole inside the northern Rhône.

The vineyard sits on granite terraces above the right bank of the river, entirely enclosed by Condrieu, and has carried its own appellation since 1936, which is rare for a property of this size. The wine is a study in restraint rather than varietal exuberance: young Grillet is tight and coiled, with a finely spun texture and a notable amertume on the finish, and only with age does the palate gain richness. Grapes are chilled before being pressed as whole bunches, the juice settles for 24 to 48 hours, then ferments on wild yeasts, finishing in barrel and going through full malolactic conversion. Maturation runs to around twelve months in barrel, occasionally longer, before a further six to eight months resting in stainless steel. Only one new 300-litre barrel enters the cellar each year, about 20 per cent of the blend, with the balance in second to fourth-use wood.

Ageing potential of ten to fifteen years is the general view. Serve at 10-12°C with roast chicken, scallops or a mild soft cheese.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.