Rhône 2023 – northern whites

Christine and Emma Vernay

Light, fresh and ready to enjoy. For an overview of the 2023 vintage, see Vintage 2023 – northern Rhône. Above, Christine Vernay and her daughter Emma of Domaine Georges Vernay, who crafted a standout Condrieu from their steep, terraced vineyards.

On the whole, northern Rhône whites fared well in 2023. Despite relatively low acidity and higher pHs there’s a freshness in the wines and the fruit is present. I’d hesitate to say the wines are for ageing but for early drinking they will give lots of pleasure.

Condrieu was fairly consistent and there’s plenty of attractive fruit and flavour...