2016 Condrieu La Doriane Guigal

The flagship 2016 Condrieu La Doriane also shows the freshness and more classical style of the vintage. Citrus blossom, crushed rocks, honeysuckle, and orange blossom give way to a medium to full-bodied, incredibly elegant Condrieu that gains depth and richness with time in the glass. It will be better this time next year and keep for 7-8 years.

Very exotic, with showy singed hazelnut and matchstick notes in front of unctuous peach, pear, fig, and quince flavors. The honeyed finish flows through with a beautiful feel. Not for everyone, but you can't deny the display of fruit. Drink now through 2020.-J.M.

All estate fruit from Côte Chatillon, Colombier, Valon, Coteau de Chery and Veron, which has spent nine months in 100% new oak barrels. It's very much about the cashew oak on the nose, while the palate is very full and fat, flowing and silky, with a mineral hint on the finish. It's long, with a strong oak influence, but the fruit beneath is pristine, though not as concentrated as some vintages. This has guarded enough acidity and freshness to make a successful Condrieu. Opulent, full, flowing and very rich. Drinking Window 2018 - 2021.