It’s one of the most common questions we get asked here at Mission, but it’s continuously difficult to answer: what’s a world-renowned white wine to give to a white lover that ISN’T Chardonnay?
The short answer: Condrieu. If you can afford it.
Those seeking something truly delicious, interesting, off-the-beaten-path, rare, renowned, and still somewhat affordable should look no further than the 2022 Condrieu “Jardin Suspendu” from Pierre-Jean Villa.
A legend in the business, Pierre-Jean Villa is a solid, well-built man, and maybe that’s why he gravitates toward elegance in wine. He grew up surrounded by vines and vignerons in the Northern Rhône town of Chavanay, but learned to make wine in Burgundy, which may also explain his bent for finesse. He first learned the ropes working at Mommessin’s Clos de Tart, which explains his winemaking prowess.
Of all the wines that Pierre-Jean makes each year, the Condrieu is the most limited at around 7,000 bottles in total for the entire planet. From three parcels totaling five acres, 50% of which are 50+ year old vines, this extremely-steep vineyard produces some of the most incredible Viognier we’ve ever tasted.
If you’re new to the Northern Rhône’s Condrieu region, it’s a tiny AOC of just a few hundred acres planted on extremely steep hills with microscopic production levels, and dedicated entirely to white wine. The best wines often clock in well over $100 per bottle and even the entry-level options start at around $60.
Today at Mission, however, we have the 2022 Pierre-Jean Villa Condrieu “Jardin Suspendu” at just $69.99 while supplies last—$20+ cheaper than the MSRP and most national retailers.
However, we only have a few six packs available and when they’re gone, they’re gone!
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate has counted Pierre-Jean’s whites as “some of the region’s finest wines.” The Guide to Wine called him “one of the most gifted winegrowers of his generation.”
If you’re looking for a super special bottle of white wine that doesn’t cost hundred of dollars, but comes with a pedigree well-beyond its price tag, this is it.