Viognier is a beloved white wine because of its captivating charm and distinct flavor profile. As the international Viognier Day approaches on the last Friday of April, falling on April 26 this year, let's embark on a journey to explore the enchanting world of this celebrated grape variety.

Viogner is an aromatic white variety (Photo licensed by Google)

Why we love Viognier

Viognier, also known as the "Queen of White Rhône Varietals," captivates with its charming qualities and distinct flavor profile. Its origins are buried in mystery, which adds to its attraction. Its yellowy-green grapes, with thick skins, ripen to a deep golden color, indicating the promise of a rich and aromatic wine.

One of the most appealing qualities is its aromatic complexity. It tantalizes the senses with a variety of enticing flavors from the minute it enters the glass. Apricot, peach, and honeysuckle notes dance gently together, accompanied by light citrus and floral undertones.

But Viognier is more than simply a sensory joy; it has a full-bodied palate that is enhanced by a silky texture and a hint of richness. Despite its opulence, it retains a crisp acidity, establishing the ideal balance that keeps the palate alive with each sip. Whether savored on its own or as part of a blend, it never fails to leave an impact, earning its place as a popular choice among wine lovers.

Viognier in France

France, especially the Rhône Valley, holds a special place in Viognier's heart. In the esteemed Condrieu appellation, Viognier reigns supreme, producing some of the world's most coveted white wines. Here, on the sun-drenched slopes overlooking the Rhône River, Viognier thrives, expressing its full aromatic potential and delivering wines of unparalleled elegance and complexity.

Beyond Condrieu, Viognier's influence extends throughout France, finding a home in regions like Languedoc, where it lends its intoxicating perfume and full-bodied nature to both single-varietal wines and blended whites. Despite its challenges in cultivation, French winemakers have embraced Viognier, showcasing its versatility and allure to wine lovers worldwide.

Viognier Around the World

While France may be Viognier's home, its allure knows no bounds, extending across continents and into the vineyards of Australia, the United States, Argentina, Chile, and beyond. In regions like California's Central Coast and Australia's Eden Valley, Viognier has found fertile ground, producing wines that rival those of its French counterparts.

How to Pair with Food

The versatility of Viognier extends beyond the glass, making it a perfect companion for a wide range of culinary delights. Its rich texture and aromatic complexity pair beautifully with an array of dishes, from delicate seafood to hearty poultry and aromatic spices.

For a match made in heaven, try pairing it with creamy dishes such as lobster bisque or chicken Alfredo, allowing the wine's lush texture to complement the decadent flavors. For a lighter option, opt for grilled shrimp or sushi, accentuating the wine's vibrant acidity and citrus notes.

Fun Facts

As we celebrate International Viognier Day, let's uncover some fascinating facts about this beloved grape variety:

• Did you know that the "Queen" nearly faced extinction in the mid-20th century, with only eight hectares remaining in France by 1965? Thankfully, dedicated efforts have revived its fortunes, and today, it's thriving in vineyards around the world.

• The name Viognier has disputed origins, with some believing it's derived from the Roman "via Gehennae," meaning the "Road of the Valley of Hell," a nod to the challenges of growing the grape.

• Viognier is often blended with Syrah in the Côte-Rôtie appellation of the northern Rhône, where it adds aromatic complexity and texture to red wines.

• The best expressions are commonly considered from Condrieu and Château Grillet.

As we raise our glasses to toast International Viognier Day, our wine expert at VinoVoss selected some of the most delicious wines in the world for you to celebrate this day.

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