I first worked with Christophe Pichon some twelve years ago, when he had first started to make wines in 1993, however, for some inexplicable reason (probably because of my frustration with Cote Rotie and Condrieu in general) I had not developed our business together. A chance meeting at a ‘Salon de vin’ in Ampuis recently, followed by a rather splendid tasting had me wondering how on earth I had let this genius slip by. However, Christophe seemed more than delighted to start working together again as I am equally delighted to be able to offer his wines. From 1993 to 1999 Christophe has worked with his father Philippe. In 2000, upon Philippe’s retirement, Christophe took control of 3.85 hectares of Condrieu and half a hectare of Cote Rotie in the Cote Blonde. This allowed him to invest in a gleaming new cellar full of the latest gadgetry. A year later Christophe managed to acquire a further parcel of vines in Cote Rotie, this time on the Cote Brune. Like his name-sake at Chateau de Montlys, Christophe was one of the few growers in Cote Rotie to tame those savage tannins and create a wine with sublime balance. He has long been known as one of the finest exponents of Condrieu and justifiably so. He chooses to age 75% of his Viognier (the grape for Condrieu) in inox cuvees, to retain freshness, whilst the remaining 25% is aged in 1-5 year old oak barriques.
Per case ex VAT
Northern Rhone
2005 Cote Rotie 'Comptese' This cuvee has been raised 18 months in an assortment of barriques. Gorgeously seductive and full of velvety ripe fruits. Complex and full with plenty of structure. This is classical in style with just a kiss of new oak. I suspect this will drink sooner than Rozier being more feminine. (JG)
424.00
2005 Cote Rotie 'Roziere' Made with 5% Viognier. Lovely perfume, violets and cassis. Rich and mouth-filling with a delicious sweetness of ripe fruits. Fine tannins and structure reflecting the true nature of the Rozier vineyard. I suspect this will need 5-10 years of evolution to show its full array of colours. (JG)
260.00
2006 Condrieu This is a wonderfully fresh and mineral Condrieu, a real pleasure to savour. Unlike so many examples where the fruits are one dimensional this wine evolves and gains in complexity in the glass. Super acidity and balance. Delicious. (JG)
232.00
Except where indicated all wines are priced per case of 12x75cl exclusive of VAT and onward UK carriage.
Delivery charges (exclusive of VAT):-
1 case - £10.95
2-3 cases - £9.50
4 + cases - FREE
E&OE. All wines are available subject to remaining unsold.
For export and all customers requiring the facilities of a bond the majority of our wines are available without duty under bond.
Current duty rates per 12 x 75cl,
still wines £17.50
sparkling wines £22.40
fortified wines £23.32
Anniversary Vintages We are frequently asked to source whiskies and Armagnacs for anniversaries and birthday.
So if you're looking for a particular vintage to celebrate a special occasion, look no further. Vintage whisky, armagnac & cognac.
