Chateau Grillet

Chateau Grillet is a fabled vineyard in France, and is the smallest appellation in France, with just a single winery and 3.5 hectare vineyard of steep low yielding vines of Viognier. Its website claims “It is a wine for the initiated and that does not reveal its secrets easily”, in laymen's English, I think this roughly translates to not many people get to drink it and it needs a few years in the bottle before opening.

The Viognier from its neighbours in Condrieu, is usually drunk within the first few years of life due to its fragrance, opulence and richness (my mouth waters just thinking of Condrieu, but don't be afraid to lay it down for a while). However, the Viognier from Grillet is much more elegant, tight, refined and restrained when young. It takes at least 8 years before it blossoms and becomes something that first stops conversations and then inspires them. Certainly not an Ugly Duckling, but a shy one.

There are few truly iconic wines on earth and Chateau Grillet is one of them. I have  tasted it on a handful of occasions and only once had the privilege to open a bottle for myself and friends, and every expectation was met. It’s tiny production means only a few lucky souls can buy it every year and it is rarely seen on the secondary market. 

It is best drunk with quite rich sweet shellfish such as scallops or a creamy chicken, but not a salty or meaty game dish.

We are delighted to be offering vintages from 2016, 2015 and 2010. All are ready to drink now, but can be laid down for a further 10 years and beyond if you have more patience than me.

AUCTION DETAILS
Thursday 25 November | 10.30am GMT
Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE

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This is a Live auction. Bidding is available via Dreweatts Live with no additional bidding fees. Commission bids and telephone bids are also accepted. Bidding in person is now available by appointment only, as we may need to restrict the numbers in the room at one time.