François Villard, a visionary chef who transitioned into winemaking, established his namesake estate in 1989 perched above Saint-Michel-sur-Rhône. He planted his very first vines in the prestigious Condrieu appellation and has since expanded the domain to over 40 hectares of certified organic vineyards. To craft his legendary "De Poncins" Condrieu, Villard exclusively sources 100% Viognier grapes from a celebrated, south-facing single vineyard named DePoncins. These mature vines average around 25 to 30 years of age and dig deep into steeply terraced slopes defined by decomposed micaceous granite and quartz soils. This exceptional site captures optimal sun exposure to yield intensely ripe fruit, while the specific soil profiles inject a balancing, electric mineral core into the finished wine.