The 2019 Chateau Grillet Vin Blanc, a white wine from the Loire Valley in France, showcases the Viognier varietal in an impressive and multifaceted manner. Produced by Chateau Grillet, this wine has an alcohol content of 15.0% and is sealed with a cork closure.
James Suckling's review from May 2023 awards the wine a score of 95, noting its "slightly awkward stage between youthful effusiveness and mature complexity." He describes the wine as "very powerful with full apricot fruit plus a touch of dried apricot," and commends its "excellent tension on the ample yet focused palate." The finish is characterized by "white tea" and a "long, textural and stony" quality, highlighting the biodynamic cultivation of the grapes. Suckling advises that the wine can be consumed now or held for future enjoyment.
Decanter's review from October 2020 is exceptionally favorable, giving the wine a high score of 97. The review speaks to a "real burst of fresh apricot and peach, lemon verbena and green tea." This wine is noted for its "salt and power," confit lemon peel on the finish, and "salted nuts." The body is described as "very full-bodied indeed, very rounded and long, but not massive, more spherical." Despite its noticeable alcohol content, the wine remains balanced. Decanter mentions that only 4,500 bottles were produced and suggests a drinking window between 2023 and 2030.
Vinous, in their March 2024 review, rates the 2019 Chateau Grillet at 96, calling it "dazzling and flamboyant." The review emphasizes its "pungent perfume reminiscent of apricot and peach compote mingling with layers of honey." Additional notes include "ripe guava, lychee, pineapple, and mango," providing a tropical twist. Stylistically, the 2019 vintage is distinct from subsequent years, attributed to a hotter growing season and a late harvest from September 9th to 14th. The wine is described as "viscously textured, powerful and concentrated," with a "touch of heat on the eccentric finale."
Overall, the 2019 Chateau Grillet Vin Blanc is a powerful and complex wine, highly praised by reviewers for its rich fruit profile and balanced structure. The wine's unique characteristics and limited production make it a noteworthy addition to any collection.