Vernay's entry-level Condrieu—the 2018 Condrieu les Terrasses de l'Empire—strikes a fine balance between ebullience and restraint, plushness and structure. Flowers and apricots are joined by hints of white pepper in this medium to full-bodied effort. Still showing a bit of dissolved carbon dioxide, it's zesty and fresh, with a hint of citrus pith on the finish.