M Chapoutier Condrieu "Invitare" 2022
(Southern Rhone, France) - [JS 94] [VM 93] [JD 91]

About the Winery:
The name Chapoutier occupies a storied place in the history of the Rhône Valley, beginning 1808, when the family first settled in the Rhône Valley. Throughout the 19^th century and well into the next, M. CHAPOUTIER and its eponymous winery grew steadily, producing wine from esteemed vineyard sites such as Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie and Châteauneuf-du-Pape. However, 1990 was a watershed moment for the winery, with the arrival of Michel Chapoutier. Under his leadership, the maverick winemaker established bold initiatives. For example, the introduction of Single Vineyard Selection that express the unique terroir of a site, or wine labels embossed in braille for the visually impaired. In each instance, Michel’s decisions were, and continue to be, driven by a deep respect for the soil, climate, and his fellow human beings.

About this Wine:
From the Latin, «to invite». This Condrieu "Invitare" is an invitation to a very enjoyable drinking experience.

Grape variety -  100% Viognier

Ageing potential -  5 years.

Vinification - Whole-grape pressing ; moderate use of sulphur. Light settling. Fermentation with indigenous yeasts, mostly in big wooden barrels (600L), wooden casks (70% which 5% of new wood) and stainless steel vats (30%).

Ageing - Aged on lees for 10 months.

Tasting -  Color: Deep gold, golden yellow with green lights. Nose: Very fruity, exotic fruit (pineapple), acacia blossom, litchee, apricot and peach. Palate: Round, full, good length in mouth with a final of vanilla.

Ratings & Reviews

94 Points - James Suckling:
"A well-rounded. textural and succulent white with notes of fresh lemons, blanched almonds, sage and some stones. It’s medium-bodied with a mineral drive. Succulent green apple character, with a positive bitterness throughout. It’s precise, lively and textured with a salivating, floral finish. Drink or hold." (Apr 2024)

93 Points - Vinous Media:
"Prominent quince, white peach, vanilla, melon, candy, apricot jam, cedar and pastry introduce the 2022 Condrieu Invitare. Viscously textured and offering excellent purity of fruit, the 2022 is neatly balanced by moderate levels of soft acidity. Offering a little more ripeness and expression than the 2021, this complex 2022 Condrieu should drink well over the next three years.” – Nicolas Greinacher (Mar 2024)

91 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
"The 2022 Condrieu Invitare comes from the northern part of the Condrieu (there's a splash from vines near Limony). It's an outstanding wine, offering pretty orange, quince, and floral notes as well as a kiss of minerality. Balanced and medium-bodied, it has a bright, refreshing profile and a great finish. Drink bottles over the coming 5-7 years or so." (Mar 2024)