An appellation for one estate
Recognised in 1936, Château-Grillet is enclosed within the Condrieu area, in the communes of Vérin and Saint-Michel-sur-Rhône. Its distinctive feature is its monopole status: the entire appellation belongs to one estate, an almost unique situation in France apart from a few Burgundian climats.
Its size, under four hectares, makes it one of France's smallest AOCs. Annual production is measured in thousands of bottles, contributing to both its rarity and its reputation.
A south-facing amphitheatre
The vineyard occupies a natural bowl of narrow terraces carved into granite, facing south and sheltered from northerly winds. This amphitheatre configuration concentrates warmth and protects the vines: a microclimate within the northern Rhône itself.
The soil is the same decomposed granite as in Condrieu, but the position of the bowl and slightly higher altitude lead to slower ripening.
An ageworthy Viognier
Where Condrieu is drunk young, Château-Grillet develops over time. Its wines open more slowly, show less exuberance in youth and develop notes of candied fruit, honey and smoke over the years, on a tighter framework.
It is a wine that needs waiting for, which can surprise those who know Viognier through Condrieu. Serve at around 12°C, with fine fish or festive poultry dishes.