(vee-ohn-YAY)
Synonyms: None
Wine Name: Viognier, Condrieu
Background: In cool climates such as Condrieu in the northern Rhône Valley region of southern France and also in Virginia on the east coast of the U.S., Viognier wines may have peach, pear, and even violet aromas. They have a fruity taste and medium-bodied mouth feel which is silky in nature.
Warm climate Viognier grapes produce wines with floral, peach, apricot, tangerine, and orange aromas. They are full bodied, and taste relatively less acidic than many other white wines. Sometimes Viognier will have anise, fennel, melon and fig fruit aromas and flavors that produce a creamy, lush finish but relatively non acidic. California and the more northern areas of Chile (Limari Valley) might typically produce this type.
Classic Brands and Sources: France – Guigal, Gilles Barge, Château-Grillet, Louis Chèze, Cuilleron, Delas Frères, Pierre Dumazet, Pierre Gaillard, Vernay; California – Alban, Arrowwood Vineyards, Calera, Cline, Jade Mountain, McCrea Cellars; Washingtpm – K Vintners; Australia – Yalumba, Haselgrove, Trentham Estate, Elgee Park; Virginia – Barboursville, Horton, Jefferson
Characteristics:
| Style #1 – cool climate (Condrieu, Virginia)
Body – medium Acidity – medium Sweetness – dry Tannins – low |
| Style #2 – warm climate
Body – full Acidity – low Sweetness – dry but fruity Tannins – low |
Wine and food pairing guidelines:
Warm climate Viognier pairs with savory dishes that are medium bodied; cool climate Viognier needs slightly more acidity in the dishes
Foods and Entrees that usually pair:
Pairs with heavier fish, shellfish, chicken, pork and veal with buttery, creamy or other savory sauces; pastas with buttery, pesto or cheese sauces, truffles, smoked salmon
Cheese Pairings:
Mild cheddar, Chaumes, Double Glouchester (similar to mild cheddar),Gouda, Smoked Gouda, Manchego, Monterey Jack, Triple Creme, St André, St Nectaire Zamarano (Spanish sheep’s milk cheese), Brie and Camembert (with or without rinds)
See also Appetizers that go with medium acidity-medium bodied white wines