Domaine Xavier Gérard

This is not one of the more ancient or venerable estates of the region – Xavier’s father François’ first Côte-Rôtie was bottled as recently as 1980 – but it’s definitely one to watch. Xavier took over from his father in 2013, and now makes Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie to rival the best-known producers in the region. As a winemaker he has impressive sensitivity, and makes wines of great precision and balance, in all the appellations he works in. His Côte-Rôties – even his single vineyard La Landonne – have a certain lightness of touch and elegant drinkability.