2016 Condrieu

Formerly known as Nicolas Perrin, this is a combination domain/négociant operation owned in partnership by Nicolas Jaboulet (a member of the extended and historically important Jaboulet family of Tain l’Hermitage) and the Perrin family, of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s Château de Beaucastel fame. The operation was launched in 2009 to some fanfare, and while it quickly developed a following in France the wines are not yet well known or much discussed here in the United States. Wines made from vines that the partners own are sold under the Domaine Les Alexandrins label and the négociant wines, such as those reviewed here, are sold under the Maison Les Alexandrins name. Through the Jaboulet connection this producer has gained access to some pretty serious vineyards and it shows in the wines, particularly since the 2015 vintage, which I believe marked a turning point, quality-wise. And the ‘16s look to be even better. This is definitely a producer to watch.