Domaine Villard 'Contours 2023'

Domaine François Villard is a prominent winery in the northern Rhône Valley, founded in 1989 by former chef François Villard. The estate now covers more than 40 hectares of vineyards, spread across prestigious appellations such as Condrieu, Côte-Rôtie, Saint-Joseph, Cornas, and Saint-Péray. After an internship with Yves Cuilleron in 1988, he decided to plant his first Viognier vines in Saint-Michel-sur-Rhône in 1989. His vineyards are located on steep terraces with a slope of up to 60%, which requires manual labor.

Description: Vibrant and aromatic with a beautiful combination of fruitiness and minerality. You can expect aromas of white peach, apricot, pear, and light citrus, sometimes with floral and saline nuances, while the round, full body is supported by fresh acidity and subtle woody notes from the aging process.

Pairs well with: Roasted fish such as sea bass, cod, or halibut with lemon or beurre blanc sauces, cheeses like brie, morbier, or young Comté.

Fun fact: Does not bear the Condrieu designation even though the vineyards are located near the famous Condrieu slopes, therefore it falls under IGP Collines Rhodaniennes.