2023 Viognier
A rich expression of Viognier in a classic full, dry style
$30
Retail
$24
About the Wine
Viognier’s rich texture, combined with its aromas of ripe stone fruit, citrus, tropical fruit, and haunting floral perfume, have taken this northern Rhône variety from near extinction in the 1960s to a popular variety in the New World. Paso Robles, with its Rhône influence, has been a new refuge for this grape, and the 2023 Viognier is an appealing expression of this variety’s showy potential. Its full-bodied, drier style, mouth-filling texture, and long finish have made this wine a favorite, especially for those who normally don’t venture into the white zone.
Tasting Notes
Body
Appearance
Clear and bright, pale straw color with golden hues, moderate viscosity, and slow forming tears on the glass.
Aroma
Intensely aromatic with a bouquet of orange blossom and jasmine followed by ripe mandarin, dried mango, honey, and nutty marzipan.
Palate
Dry and full-bodied, initial flavors of ripe apricot and Asian pear give way to more complex notes of juicy peach, candied ginger, pineapple, and brioche. The texture and warm spice notes persist to a lively finish with a striking balance of richness, depth, and acidity.
Key Features
Appellation
Paso Robles
Fermentation
Whole-cluster-pressed, barrel-fermented in neutral French oak with X5 and M2 yeast
Maturation
Aged six months sur-lie
Alcohol
15.0%
SUGGESTED FOOD PAIRINGS
Flavorful Cheeses
The 2023 Viognier is a rich, balanced wine with a head-turning mix of complex fruit, floral notes, and a touch of oak that matches perfectly with flavorful dishes like honey-and-curry-spiced roasted chicken with spinach and Cara Cara orange salad, or richly flavored firm cheeses such as aged Dutch gouda.
