Philippe Viret “La Coudée d’Or 2019

La Coudée d’Or combines a panoply of white Rhône varietals such as Clairette, Bourboulenc, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier, and various ancient obscurities (Viret has over 100 varieties planted on the property!) Grapes begin fermentation on their skins and are removed after a few days and pressed, after which the wine ages for two years in well-used oak barrels. La Coudée d’Or is a luscious, intense, pulpy, lip-smackingly vibrant white wine sitting on a strong foundation of acidity and a hint of salinity. This wine absolutely transcends Rhône whites’ (often undeserved) reputation as pleasant- but-unadventurous table wine.