Maison Tardieu-Laurent was founded in 1996 by Michel Tardieu and Dominique Laurent, though for many years the business has been the exclusive domaine of the Tardieu family. Today, it is run by Michel, his son, Bastien, and daughter, Camille. When Michel started the business, he would ask the growers he worked with two questions: which producers in the same appellation wines they liked to drink, and if they had some friends or producers with well-located old vines who might be interested to work with him. The result is an extensive network of “partner vignerons” — farmers with whom the family have long-standing relationships, almost all of whom have enviable holdings of old vines in the northern and southern Rhône’s most prestigious appellations. Today, this word of mouth and handshake model is still how the family conducts their business.

Les Becs Fins blanc is a blend of 40% Viognier, 30% Grenache Blanc and 10% each of Clairette, Marsanne and Roussanne. Deep gold in color, this Rhône white is intensely aromatic with aromas of exotic and citrus fruits on the nose. The palate is extremely expressive with flavors of white stone fruit mixed with citrus peel balanced by a delicate minerality and vibrant acidity. The saline-laced finish is lengthy and persistent. Can be enjoyed with roasted vegetable risotto or a range of fish or chicken dishes.