Viognier tends to be high in alcohol, rich in texture and low in acidity.
It is the only permitted grape in the French wine region of Condrieu and the enclave AOC of Chateau-Grillet, in the northern Rhone region of France.
The key flavors of Viognier are peaches, apricot, nutmeg, and cream.
Viognier grapes are planted in Virginia, Texas, North Carolina, Colorado, California, France, Australia, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Spain, Italy and Switzerland.
Virginia is home to some wonderful Viognier wines. A favorite is Horton Vineyard’s NV Sparkling Viognier.
It is a challenge to grow because it is susceptible to disease and unless it is picked at perfect ripeness, the wine will taste flat.
Viognier grapes require a great deal of sunshine to ripen properly.
Viognier tends to be a low-acid wine, sometimes making it a challenge to pair with food.
In the late 1960's, just 40 acres of Viognier vines existed in the world.
The terroir required to produce quality Viognier is warm and sunny, with a specific soil type.
In most instances, Viognier should be consumed young, except Château Grillet, a wine that has a reputation for aging up to two decades.
Viognier pairs well with grilled fish, chicken, Asian-inspired dishes and spicy food.
For cheese pairings, consider choosing soft blue cheese, Emmentaler, Colby, Edam, Feta, Gouda, and Monterey Jack.
Sources: thenewstribune.com, wine-searcher.com, wineloverspage.com, winepros.org, cheesemistress.com, drinkwhatyoulike.wordpress.com