M. Chapoutier 2022 IGP Collines Rhodaniennes La Combe Pilate Viognier

M. Chapoutier 2022 IGP Collines Rhodaniennes La Combe Pilate ViognierCrafted from biodynamically grown Viognier on granitic and gneiss influenced soils (clay, quartz pebbles, limestone gravel, loess) in Chapoutiers Collines Rhodaniennes estate, La Combe Pilate reflects the firm, mineral rich personality of its hillside vineyard. Aromatic Profile Pale gold in huewith aniseed tinged highlightsthe nose is refined, offering bergamot, flint stone, and gentle white florals such as orange blossom or jasmine; a delicate yet

Crafted from biodynamically grown Viognier on granitic and gneiss-influenced soils (clay, quartz pebbles, limestone gravel, loess) in Chapoutier’s Collines Rhodaniennes estate, “La Combe Pilate” reflects the firm, mineral-rich personality of its hillside vineyard. 

👃 Aromatic Profile

Pale gold in hue—with aniseed-tinged highlights—the nose is refined, offering bergamot, flint stone, and gentle white florals such as orange blossom or jasmine; a delicate yet focused expression of Viognier. 

👄 Palate & Texture

Clean and invigorating on the palate, the wine balances the varietal’s richness—stone fruit and apricot—with vibrant acidity. Expect a seamless interplay of nectarine, peach, and savory minerality, culminating in a savory, slightly saline finish. 

🔚 Finish

Dry and lingering, the finish showcases textured minerality, gently savory notes, and a final echo of stone bedrock with subtle herbal nuance.

🌟 Reviews & Score

• 91 pts, James Suckling (2023): “Full peach and apricot aromas… generous body and lively acidity.” 

• 90–92 pts, Wine Advocate (2024): A “spicy, floral and perfumed” take with “ample concentration and length.” 

• 90 points, Decanter WW 2024 for fruit intensity and textural harmony.

🍽️ Pairing & Serve

Serve chilled (~10–12 °C) alongside seafood (ginger shrimp, cod ceviche), light poultry, or fresh Asian-influenced dishes (e.g., ginger-lime salmon), as suggested by multiple sommeliers.

✅ Final Take

Chapoutier’s La Combe Pilate 2022 is a beautifully balanced Viognier—elegantly expressive, minerally fresh, and perfectly poised between stone fruit richness and crisp acidity. It’s a biodynamic Rhône white that impresses with depth and drinkability.

Bottom Line: A vibrant, terroir-driven Viognier that proves Chapoutier’s estate-crafted finesse—a top-tier Rhône experience in a glass.