Domaine Georges Vernay Cote-Rotie 'Blonde du Seigneur' Red 2021

Grape

Syrah and Viognier

Tasting notes

The ‘Blonde du Seigneur’ offers a refined, elegant expression of Côte-Rôtie, standing in contrast to the more structured style of Maison Rouge. Sourced from 30-year-old vines, this wine highlights the violet-perfumed, graceful character of the appellation. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel vats to preserve the wine’s delicate fruit aromas, and 8% Viognier is blended in, adding a touch of softness and aromatic lift. The wine is then aged for a minimum of 18 months in barrel, with 25% new oak, imparting subtle complexity without overwhelming the fruit. With an annual production of around 15,000 bottles, this is a thoughtfully crafted Côte-Rôtie that marries precision with finesse.

More About The Winery

Perched on the steep granite terraces of Condrieu, Domaine Georges Vernay is the undisputed reference for Viognier and one of the greatest domaines in all of France. Founded in 1937 and now led by Christine Vernay, the estate has transformed from saving Viognier from extinction to producing some of the most sought-after white wines in the world.

The domaine’s three Condrieu cuvées — Les Terrasses de l’Empire, Les Chaillées de l’Enfer, and Côteau de Vernon — are benchmark expressions of Viognier: precise, complex, and age-worthy, far removed from the plump examples found elsewhere. Tiny yields, old vines, and minimal intervention define the style, producing wines of extraordinary finesse, depth, and minerality.

Beyond Condrieu, Domaine Vernay also crafts outstanding Côte-Rôtie reds — Blonde du Seigneur and Maison Rouge — regarded among the finest of the appellation. More accessible bottlings, such as the Viognier Le Pied de Samson and Syrah Georges Vernay, showcase the domaine’s craftsmanship at superb value.

Internationally acclaimed, Christine Vernay was named “Wine Person of the Year 2012” by Bettane & Desseauve, elevating the domaine to the prestigious 5-star rating alongside legends like DRC, Château Latour, and Château d’Yquem. Remarkably, Vernay remains one of the few family-owned domaines in this elite circle.