Viognier is a highly aromatic white grape variety known for its floral and fruity characteristics. It often features notes of orange blossom, jasmine, honeysuckle, and violets, along with ripe fruit flavors like apricot, peach, mango, and tangerine. In cooler climates, Viognier can develop subtle spicy and herbal undertones, including hints of ginger, clove, and lavender. This combination of aromas and flavors makes Viognier a distinct and expressive wine.
Viognier wines are typically full-bodied, with a creamy and silky texture. Unlike many white wines, Viognier has lower acidity, resulting in a lush and smooth mouthfeel. Originally from France’s Rhône Valley, the grape is now cultivated worldwide, including in the United States, Australia, and South Africa. Winemakers produce Viognier in different styles, ranging from dry to sweet, each reflecting regional influences and winemaking techniques.
Different Viognier Styles: Dry, Off-Dry, and Sweet
Dry Viognier wines, found in regions such as Northern Rhône, California, and Australia, are known for their intense floral and stone fruit notes. Off-dry Viogniers have slight residual sweetness, enhancing their fruitiness and richness, making them an excellent match for mildly spiced dishes. Sweet Viognier wines, often produced as late-harvest or dessert wines, offer honeyed flavors and concentrated fruit notes, pairing well with fruit-based desserts or blue cheese.
Viognier is often blended with other grape varieties to enhance aromatic intensity and complexity. In France’s Côte-Rôtie region, it is combined with Syrah to add floral and fruity layers to bold red wines. In the New World, Viognier is used in rich and fragrant white blends, contributing to a smooth and silky texture. This blending versatility highlights Viognier’s ability to complement different wine styles.
Top Viognier Wines from the SFIWC 2024
The San Francisco International Wine Competition (SFIWC) recognized four outstanding Viognier wines. McManis Family Vineyards 2023 River Junction Viognier ($13) offers bright citrus, peach, and apricot aromas with a crisp, refreshing finish. Jeff Runquist Wines 2023 Viognier ($45) is a full-bodied wine with a tropical fruit medley and a long, lingering finish. Mountain Brook Vineyards 2023 Viognier ($25) from North Carolina showcases vibrant acidity, a silky texture, and elegant stone fruit flavors. Covert Wineworks “Vivian” 2023 Viognier ($34) from Virginia presents floral aromas, balanced acidity, and a mild sweetness.
The success of these Viognier wines highlights the increasing recognition of the grape beyond its traditional French origins. With excellent examples emerging from California, North Carolina, and Virginia, Viognier continues to thrive in different terroirs. These wines provide exceptional quality at various price points, making Viognier an attractive option for both enthusiasts and casual drinkers.