2010 Éric Texier Opâle
A Viognier from Condrieu that is made with Mosel Kabinett as its stylistic ideal. It is only 7% abv and has 70g/l RS and it is like biting into an apple: crunchy, sweet and deliciously acidic. Outstanding.
2008 Éric Texier St. Joseph Vieilles Vignes "La Croix"
12% abv. This is a wine of such purity and grace that I was almost reduced to tears before its ethereal nature. Though I am not a Platonist this seemed to be the Platonic ideal of Syrah with its pepper and game aromas and dark but un-sweet fruit. Dry but fleshy, deliciously sour and structured. Interminable. Lovely now, I hope I can find more to see what this will turn into.
2009 Éric Texier Châteauneuf-du-Pape
14,5% abv. Very primary, being mostly sweet, dark fruit but it does have some savoury garrigue and leather character already. Rich, sweet and luscious but it has a bite of acidity and lightness of touch that distinguishes it from most other CdPs. Seems promising enough that I must find myself a couple bottles to cellar.