A blend of grapes from Bassenon, Maison Rouge and Lancement, the 2019 Cote Rotie Blonde du Seigneur contains about 5% Viognier. Notes of violets and purple raspberries appear on the nose, joined by peppery spice and hints of licorice, while the palate is medium to full-bodied, silky and deep, with a long, mouthwatering finish that echoes of cherries and raspberries.

Less aromatic and nuanced but more powerful than the 2019 version, the 2018 Cote Rotie Blonde du Seigneur is full-bodied, supple and rich, with ample black cherry and blackberry fruit, a velvety mouthfeel and a long, mouthwatering finish. It's still a delicious mouthful of Cote Rotie that should drink well for more than a decade.

Vernay's 2017 Cote Rotie Blonde du Seigneur features attractive hints of mint and red berries on the nose. It's only medium-bodied, but it's admirably concentrated, with a silky-creamy texture on the palate and charming floral notes that linger on the crisp finish. It should drink well for a decade or more.

Vernay's 2016 Cote Rotie Blonde du Seigneur has 5% Viognier and spent 18 months in 30% new oak. It's a lovely wine, brimming with perfumes of violets, roses and jasmine, plus plenty of raspberry fruit, all framed by hints of pencil shavings. It's medium to full-bodied yet with a delicately silky texture and ample freshness on the long finish.