2023 Domaine Mouton - VDP Syrah (750ml)

Domaine Mouton Père et Fils is a small family estate at the heart of Condrieu, in the northern Rhône, run today by Bryan Mouton, the fourth generation to work the land after his father Jean-Claude joined the domaine in 1989 and his grandfather André before him. The roughly nine-hectare property sits on steep, south-facing terraces overlooking the village, terrain long prized for Syrah and the aromatic white grapes the region is known for. The family favors a hands-on approach in both vineyard and cellar, staying close to traditional methods passed down through the generations.

This Syrah comes from granite hillsides on the outskirts of the great northern Rhône appellations, at moderate altitude where the vines root deep into well-drained, low-fertility soil. Grapes are hand-harvested, and vinification takes a gentle approach with moderate extraction to preserve fruit character. The wine then ages for about eighteen months, mostly in stainless steel with a smaller portion resting in oak barrel, a method meant to keep the Syrah expressive and true to its terroir.

The glass shows a deep purple hue, with violet and sandalwood aromas layered over blackcurrant, blackberry, and cherry fruit. A touch of nutmeg and smoke rounds things out, while the palate stays medium-bodied with fine, melted tannins and a fresh finish. It suits grilled lamb chops, a peppered steak, or a firm aged cheese like Cantal.