New Arrivals from Domaine Georges Vernay

We have some new releases from Georges Vernay, THE top producer in the Condrieu appellation . 2009 & 2010 were spectacular vintages in the the Northern Rhone, but crop yields were small so production was down by 20-30%. The domaine's wines set the benchmark for viognier in the appellation and the Rhone Valley, both north and south. They also have been making excellent syrahs from vineyards sourced in Saint-Joseph and Cote-Rotie.
 
"Vernay’s fame primarily comes from the family’s long time position as one of the leaders and reference points of the Condrieu appellation."

-Robert Parker, the Wine Advocate

2010 Georges Vernay Viognier "Ped de Sampson" Vin de Pays
On Sale $37.99
"Gorgeous fresh-cut peach and apricot notes are offset by bright twinges of kaffir lime and chamomile. The long, fennel-tinged finish is brisk and lively. Drink now. 1,250 cases made."

-Rated 91/100 Points by the Wine Spectator

 

"The staff went crazy over this offering from Georges Vernay. The fuit is sourced from an upper slope (300 meters) in Condrieu but declassified by the Vernay family because of the vineyard's altitude. Loads of honeysuckle and peach on the nose, with ripe fruit and minerals on the palate. This is a fantastic value, considering the high price of most Condrieus."

-Dave Davis, the Wine Merchant, Ltd

2010 Georges Vernay Condrieu 'Terrasses de l'Empire"

On Sale $79.99 750 ml
Light gold.  Citrus zest, nectarine, jasmine and chalky mineral aromas show impressive clarity and vibrancy.  Intensely flavored, sharply delineated orange and pit fruit flavors are complemented by notes of candied ginger and white pepper, which adds closing bite.  Impressively pure and balanced to age, but it's awfully delicious now.-Rated 92/100 Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

-Rated 93/100, the Wine Spectator

2010 Domaine George Vernay Syrah Vins de Pays de Collines Rhodaniennes Fleurs de Mai

On Sale $29.99 (net)
"Bright ruby.  Red and dark berry preserve aromas are complicated by anise and violet.  Classic northern Rhone syrah, offering juicy black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors and a lick of cracked pepper.  Closes on a sweet note, with very good clarity and floral persistence."
-Rated 90/100 Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

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2009 Domaine George Vernay St. Joseph Terres d'Encre

On Sale $45.99 (net)
Opaque ruby.  Sexy, floral aromas of dark berry preserves, violet and woodsmoke, with a powerful spicy accent gaining strength with air.  Fleshy and smooth in texture, but with excellent clarity and lift to the sweet blackberry and cherry-cola flavors.  Closes on a spicy note, with lingering sweetness and impressive length.-Rated 91/100 Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar