2016 Condrieu

(raised in stainless steel tanks and made with no malo) Limpid straw-yellow. Assertive, mineral-accented orchard fruit, melon and fennel aromas are sharpened by hints of ginger and lemon zest. Intense pear skin, Meyer lemon and violet pastille flavors show a suave blend of richness and delicacy thanks to a spine of juicy acidity. Closes minerally, taut and impressively long, leaving a powerful floral note behind.

The 2016 Condrieu La Bonnette is terrific and has a pure, vibrant, classy style. Tangerine, white grapefruit, and floral notes all emerge from this medium-bodied, impeccably balanced, graceful Condrieu that has a clean, racy style that’s going to benefit from 6-12 months of bottle age. It’s classy stuff. The son of René, Pierre Rostaing, is now taking a more leading role in this terrific estate. The 2015s are beautiful wines, but don’t discount the 2016s, which are almost as impressive.

Since the last time I visited the domaine a few years ago, I'm happy to say the whites at Rostaing have improved in clarity and focus. The 2016 Condrieu la Bonnette is medium-bodied, offering attractive floral, apricot and spice aromas. It's not overly rich but is fresh instead, with a clean, refreshing, peppery/gingery finish. It should drink well for a few years.