Verzier Condrieu Authentic 2020

92 points Joe Czerwinski (Wine Advocate): "Ripe tropical fruit aromas dominate the nose of Verzier's 2020 Condrieu Authentic. It's full-bodied, round and ripe, with a lovely, creamy texture on the palate and a long finish. While not the most detailed, precise Condrieu, it delivers plenty of flavor and pleasure. Drink: 2021-2024. (1/20/22)"

17/20 points Julia Harding, MW (JancisRobinson.com): "Full bottle 1,513 g. This comes from a terraced plot named Chante-Perdrix (the singing partridge), 'très granitique', according to Maxime Verzier, at 200–330 m of elevation on the Izeras hillside. Aged 9 months in 80% oak and 20% sandstone jars. Certified organic (FR-BIO-10) and biodynamic (Demeter). Rich and inviting aroma of apricots and something more nutty/mealy. There's a stony/mineral quality too and a touch of spice. On the palate, this is impressive: deep and grainy like fresh pears but with a savoury counterpoint and notable intensity and length but with none of the heaviness that can plague Condrieu. It has weight, breadth and length and the slight bitterness on the finish that characterises Condrieu for me. Yet well-balanced. It may age longer than I have suggested but I am never sure about Condrieu. Drinking Window: 2023-2026. (Dec 2023)"

Producer notes: "This is classic Condrieu with the tell-tale nose of apricots, peaches and honeyed jasmine. On the palate, the wine is bright and fresh with crisp acidity. Great richness follows with a wine that is at the same time honeyed and viscous while possessing excellent balance."