Sips & Snacks in May

Josie Hough
May 1, 2024
2 min read

Wine

Viognier

-The History of Viognier-

Serve at 50-52°

Pronounced "vee-own-yay" or "vee-ohn-yay"

If you're looking for an alternative to the common place Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio, let me introduce you to their stepsister, Viognier.

Like Chardonnay, Viognier is from both the Old World (France's Rhone Valley) and the New World (California, Washington, Virginia and Australia). You will find the biggest difference in these two regions shows in the floral and fruity tones you'll find in a New World Viognier.

Most Viognier are found to be medium to low acidity and often relatively high in alcohol content. Like Chardonnay from last month, Viognier can range in flavor when aged in stainless steel compared to oak. As a rule of thumb, if you're looking for bright and fruity, go for stainless steel. If a Viognier with more body and notes of vanilla and spice is your thing, then opt for an oak-aged bottle. Overall, Viognier is full of fruit aroma, is very flavorful and pairs well with spicy foods.

Sweet Spot Viognier - 2021 Yalumba "Y" Viognier - $12.99

This Australian wine is a great way to introduce yourself to Viognier because of it's price point- it drinks like a much more expensive wine. I love the light touches of peach and lemon and yet somehow it stays smooth. I enjoyed it with fried chicken and it was PERFECTION!

Special Day Viognier - 2019 Bougetz Cellars 'Belle Reve' Yates Family Vineyard Viognier - $39.99

This Napa Valley wine is a little harder to find, but worth it. It's an easy match with many foods, making it even more desirable. It is smooth, like the Yalumba "Y" Viognier, but has a subtly sweet touch that brings a touch of honey. This makes it awesome with spicy and rich foods.