2011 Condrieu Clos Boucher

The 2011 Condrieu Clos Boucher is smoking good! Loaded with classy, pure aromas and flavors of flower oil, caramelized peaches, brioche and ample minerality, this medium to full-bodied effort has knockout purity, vibrant acidity and terrific length. Enjoy it over the coming 3-4 years. Run by Jacques Grange and Claire Darnaud, Delas, which is owned by the Louis Roederer-Deutz Champagne firm, is producing no nonsense, extremely high quality efforts that are near the top of each of their respective appellations. I was consistently impressed by the wines, and they stood out in all of the larger tastings that I was able to do. In addition, I was able to taste the wines again at the domain, and again once back in the states. These are serious efforts worthy of attention. As to the Hermitages, they produce two, a standard Domaine des Tourettes, and in top vintages, the Les Bessards. In addition to the top-flight Cote Rotie and Hermitage releases, this estate produces a bevy of high quality efforts from Cornas and Saint Joseph. Importer: Maison Marques et Domaines, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 587-2000