Viognier

Viognier is white wine grape winning the hearts of UK wine lovers with its rich, ripe fruit flavours and satisfying texture.

While growing this grape variety is challenging – it ripens unevenly and is prone to disease – the outcome is truly rewarding. The result? A wine that’s aromatic, with a velvety texture and notes of ripe stone fruits.

Though it faced a fall in popularity in the 1960s – almost fading into obscurity – Viognier has made a remarkable comeback. Its modern revival has cemented its place in the iconic blends of France’s Côtes-du-Rhône region.

You’ll also see great examples from the likes of South Africa and Australia. Whether planning a special meal or seeking a delightful treat, Viognier wines are an excellent choice.

With roots in France’s Rhône Valley, Viognier is grown mainly in the southern Rhône and Languedoc regions, but it’s also cultivated around the world in Italy, Spain, Argentina, South Africa and South Australia.

In the US, Viognier vineyards can be found in California, Washington and Virginia, among other states. Viognier grapes are known as the ‘winemaker’s headache’ thanks to their low, unpredictable yields and susceptibility to mildew. They can also only be picked at peak ripeness. Timing is everything with these grapes. Harvest them too soon, and you might miss out on those signature floral scents.

Even though Viognier loves a warm spot and a lengthy growing season, with a bit of care, it can do well in cooler places, too.

Pour a glass of Viognier, and you’re in for a treat. Think rich peach and apricot tastes with the sweet scents of honeysuckle and blossom. These wines are medium to full-bodied, easy on the acidity and tannins, but generous on the alcohol – making them great for relaxed sipping.

While most are fresh and fruity, designed to be enjoyed young, some Viognier wines get a little extra love with oak ageing. This adds a smooth touch and hints of vanilla and toasted spice.

Viognier wines typically offer soft, tropical fruit flavours with strong blossom notes. Flavours can range from light and zingy to bold and creamy, depending on where the wine is produced. Viognier flavours can include:

• Mango
• Peach
• Apricot
• Tangerine
• Pear
• Jasmine
• Honeysuckle
• Violet

Secondary flavours develop when Viognier is aged in oak barrels, with hints of vanilla and other baking spices adding a creamy lushness to the wine.

Choosing a Viognier? The region it’s from matters. The climate where the grapes grow can shape its acidity, sweetness and overall taste.

Although Viognier is grown successfully in many countries like North America and Italy, France is still considered the best producer of this indulgent wine. Look for the Rhône and the iconic Condrieu or Château-Grillet on the label for something very special.

Fancy something a bit more subtle? Good Viogniers can be found from cooler climates in South Africa and Australia. Here the wines are elegant and silky, with a slightly more understated style.

Viognier is a versatile wine variety that is as food-friendly as a wine could get, being paired successfully with dishes from a wide range of cuisines. Certainly a safe bet when choosing from restaurant wine lists. Because of its natural fruitiness, Viognier is a great wine to pair with Asian dishes – think fragrant Thai rice, mango chutney, seared pork and sweet-spicy curries.

For something a little lighter, try pairing your Viognier with mild, creamy cheeses like burrata, ricotta and Muenster with toasted bread and chutneys – a delicious mid-afternoon treat to share with friends. Thanks to a medium acidity, Viognier is also an easy-going glass to serve solo as an aperitif.

Discover more food and wine pairing tips.

Much like a Chardonnay, Viognier shines when chilled, ideally between 10-12°C. Too warm, and you might miss out on its vibrant flavours and crispness.

At the right temperature, its fruity and floral notes come alive. Freshly poured, expect a clear, golden glow. As it settles, it might get a tad cloudier but will keep its radiant shade.