French White Rhone Wine, Domaine François Merlin 2011 Condrieu Terroirs
  • French White Rhone Wine, Domaine François Merlin 2011 Condrieu Terroirs
  • French White Rhone Wine, Domaine François Merlin 2011 Condrieu Terroirs

Domaine François Merlin
2011 Condrieu Terroirs

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This classic Condrieu, assembled from several Viognier vines, bears the trademark of François Merlin’s taste: not too cloying and sweet, with vivacity and minerality.

  • Suggestive of white peaches and melon with sappy scents and something a little more pungent in the background—hints of spice—along with straightforward fruit. Very dry on the palate, despite a somewhat fleshy decadence. Full-bodied, pungent, strong, and spicy, yet with clean, sappy flavors. Intense but with finesse. Protracted, spicy finish. Ready to drink now but probably will keep nicely through around 2016.

    Food pairing: Pasta primavera in a light cream sauce, light curry dishes, the local goat cheese "Rigotte de Condrieu"

  • Dreamy and seductive on the nose, with suggestions of white flowers, wet stone, chalk, stone fruits, and confectioneries. Of medium body on the palate, which features white flowers, honey, perfume, and intense, ethereal apricot flavors that lead into a clean, delicate finish. The high level of alcohol is apparent—and part of the charm.

    Food pairing: apricot tart; chicken in an apricot sauce

The Creator of This Wine

Domaine François Merlin

Domaine François Merlin

Heir not to a winemaker but to a chemical engineer, François Merlin studied agriculture and learned the work of the vines in the vineyards of René Rostaing. He planted his first vineyard -- in Condrieu -- in 1987, started making his own wines in 1999, and quickly became one of the “top names” in Condrieu (according to Rhône expert Livingstone-Learmonth). His son Laurent joined him in 2013.

Details
Producer:Domaine François Merlin
Region:Rhone
Year:2011
Maturity:2015
Alcohol:13.5%
Bottle size:750ml
Color:White
Varietal:Viognier
Flavors:Peach, Apricot, Mineral
Body:Medium-Full
Soul:Spicy