Domaine Pierre Dumazet Condrieu “Cuvée Rouelle Midi”
WHY WE LOVE IT
- This single-plot Condrieu vineyard is southern exposed on the terraces of the steep, steep slopes of the “Massif Central”, a 240 million year old mountain range of magma origin with a low Ph level.
- The initial granite is partly eroded, making the particles very fine, with the minerals small enough to be picked up by the vine roots, taking them up to the grapes.
- Combined with a semi-continental climate, Condrieu is considered as one of the best terroirs of the world for Viognier, the only allowed grape variety for Condrieu.
Varietal Composition: 100% Viognier
Elaboration: The alcoholic and malolactic fermentation takes place in 225 litre French-oak barrels. The wine stays on the lees for about 12 months and is regularly stirred.
Tasting Notes: Expressive nose, good roundness, apricot, quince, high complexity, long mouthfeel, minerality, well-balanced.
PRESS
n/a
PRODUCER BACKGROUND
Pierre Dumazet’s staunchly traditional domaine of the same name has been family-owned since 1860, with just under 6 hectares under vine. Cru holdings in Condrieu and Cornas give them terrific advantage. Pierre is now 82 years of age, and he continues to works his vineyards by hand (perhaps the secret to his longevity?), with no pesticides, no insecticides, or chemicals at all. As you’d expect, terroir expression is monumental with these wines.
The winemaking is traditional, and unlike most in the Rhone nowadays, Pierre is anti-prefermentation. Whites are all destemmed, while the reds are 50% destemmed and 50% whole bunch, depending on the vintage. The Condrieu is vinified in used barrel and stays there for about 12 months. The reds age in used barrel for 12-15 months. Quantities are limited and sporadic.