2006 François Villard Viognier 'Les Contours de Deponcins'

Francois Villard makes one of the northern Rhone's most stunning Condrieus, but this talented young vintner also makes a haunting wine called "Les Contours de Deponcins," which is made from the Viognier grape but doesn't carry the Condrieu appellation. A vin de pays made from younger Condrieu vines, it is a little less rich than his official Condrieu, yet beautifully balanced, floral and elegant. I absolutely love this wine.

Drink this Rhone white with sushi or with lobster or crab. It's also a great match with wild mushroom risotto.