
Viognier
Learn about Viognier — taste profile, popular regions and more ...
Full-figured and charmingly floral, Viognier is one of the most important white grapes of the northern Rhône, and the only one allowed in Condrieu and neighboring monopole (an entire appellation dedicated to just one winery), Château Grillet. It is also a blending variety in several appellations throughout the entire Rhône Valley. Viognier is grown throughout much of the rest of the wine world with some degree of success. Look for great New World examples from California, Oregon, Washington and cooler parts of Australia.
Tasting Notes for Viognier
Viognier is a dry, white wine with a full body and distinctive floral aromas. redolent of a full bouquet of flowers, stone and tropical fruits and a dash of spice. It is lower in acidity than most white wines, lending to its heavy impression on the palate. While a whiff of Viognier might suggest sweet flavors, these wines are typically quite dry.
Perfect Food Pairings for Viognier
Viognier is an intense, bold variety that can easily stand up to hearty food like pork loin with apricot stuffing, roasted chicken or chicken Kiev.
Sommelier Secrets for Viognier
While Viognier is a white grape, it also plays an important role in the red wines of Côte Rôtie in the northern Rhône. About 5% Viognier is typically co-fermented with the Syrah in order to stabilize the color, and as an added benefit, add a subtle perfume.
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Beaulieu Vineyard Signet Collection Viognier 1997Viognier from Napa Valley, California
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Kunde Viognier 1997Viognier from Sonoma County, California
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Rosenblum Cellars Santa Barbara County Viognier 1997Viognier from Central Coast, California
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Guigal Condrieu 1997Viognier from Condrieu, Rhone, France
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Jaboulet Condrieu Blanc 1997Viognier from Condrieu, Rhone, France
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McDowell Viognier 1997Viognier from North Coast, California
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M. Chapoutier Condrieu Viognier 1997Viognier from Condrieu, Rhone, France
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Iron Horse Viognier 1997Viognier from Sonoma County, California
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Alain Paret Condrieu Lys de Volan 1997Viognier from Condrieu, Rhone, France
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Beringer Napa Valley Viognier 1997Viognier from Napa Valley, California
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M. Chapoutier 1996 Les Coufis VDP Viognier (half-bottle) 1997Viognier from Rhone, France
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Fess Parker Santa Barbara Viognier 1997Viognier from Central Coast, California
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