M. Chapoutier 2016 La Combe Pilate
La Combe Pilate (pronounced “La kohm pe-lot”) is 100% Viognier from a hillside vineyard on Michel Chapoutier’s property where Michel pushes the boundaries on the biodynamic concept with his experimental range called “The Alchemy Wines”. The symbol on La Combe Pilate’s label is the alchemic symbol for spirit and is inked to Chapoutier’s biodynamic philosophy – to respect and transform the raw material into a high quality product while showcasing the spirit of the land. The Collines Rhodaniennes IGP is characterized by the hills and valleys that surround the Rhone River. With the Massif Central lying to the west and the embryonic foothills of the Alps to the east, the Rhone River carves its way through south-eastern France to the Mediterranean Sea.
Pale gold with aniseed-colored highlights. Delicate floral notes with peach, citrus and flinty minerals. Very fresh on the entry, good balance with a savory finish that brings out the rustic and vibrant mineral overtones.
Jeb Dunnuck - 92 Points
"Made from 100% Viognier, the 2016 IGP Collines Rhodaniennes La Combe Pilate is a ripe, unctuous beauty that boasts a huge nose of ripe peach, orange blossom, and honeysuckle. Rich, medium to full-bodied and textured, it's a mini (maybe not so mini) Condrieu."
Wine Spectator - 91 Points
"This has lots of anise, peach, apricot and green plum flavors bouncing through, with fresh acidity and a fennel streak lending freshness. Drink now."
