Viognier Wine Guide: Its History & Distinctive Characteristics

The history of Viognier wine can be traced back to ancient Rome. It is believed that Roman soldiers brought the grape to the Rhône Valley in France during their conquests. However, it wasn’t until the 18th century that Viognier became well-known in the region.

Viognier was once a widely planted grape in France, but its popularity waned over the years due to its low yield and susceptibility to disease. By the early 20th century, the grape was on the brink of extinction, with only a few vineyards left in the world.

Fortunately, a small group of winemakers from the Condrieu appellation recognized the potential of Viognier and began working to restore the grape to its former glory. In the 1960s, their efforts paid off as Viognier started to gain popularity among wine enthusiasts.

Today, Viognier is grown in various regions around the world, such as California, Australia, and South Africa, to name a few. This wine is a favorite among many people because it has a really special taste and smell.

Despite its resurgence, Viognier remains a challenging grape to grow, requiring a warm climate and careful cultivation to thrive. But for those who are willing to put in the effort, Viognier offers a unique and rewarding experience with a fascinating history that adds to its allure.

Viognier wine is known for its distinctive characteristics that set it apart from other white wines. Here are a few things that make Viognier special:

• Aroma: Viognier has a delicate, floral aroma that is often described as having notes of honeysuckle, apricot, and lime. This makes it a highly aromatic wine that engages the senses.
• Flavor: Viognier is typically a full-bodied wine with a rich and luscious flavor profile. It is characterized by notes of tropical fruit, peach, apricot, and honey, with a hint of spice on the finish.
• Low acidity: Unlike many white wines, Viognier has a relatively low acidity level. This gives it a softer, more rounded mouthfeel and makes it less tart than other whites.
• Ageability: Viognier has the ability to age well, developing more complex flavors and aromas over time. Some Viogniers can be aged for 10+ years, which is unusual for white wine.

Viognier is a versatile grape that can be used to make different styles of wine, from dry and crisp to sweet and dessert-like. It also blends well with other grapes, such as Chardonnay and Roussanne, to create unique and complex blends that are full of flavor.

If you’re looking for something different from your usual white wine, you’ve got to try Viognier. It’s seriously a treat for all of your senses. This wine has so many unique traits and flavors that make it really stand out from the crowd.

Once you try it, you’ll know what we mean.

Viognier wine is a versatile and delicious wine that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are a few tips on how to drink it:

Pairing with food: Viognier is a wine that is meant to be enjoyed with food. Its full-bodied flavor and low acidity make it an excellent pairing for fish and seafood dishes, as well as white meat. It also pairs well with creamy sauces and dishes that include spices like ginger or curry. Viognier is also an excellent match for goat cheese, asparagus, and other vegetables. For those who enjoy Asian cuisine, Viognier makes a great pairing for Thai, Vietnamese, and Japanese sushi dishes.

Temperature: The optimal serving temperature for Viognier is between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit (7-10 degrees Celsius). This ensures that the wine’s aromas and flavors are fully developed and can be appreciated to their fullest.

Glassware: When serving Viognier, it is recommended to use a smaller bowl-shaped glass, similar to a white wine glass. This allows the wine’s aroma to be captured and released, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the wine.

Aperitif: Viognier can also be enjoyed as an aperitif. Its fruity and floral notes make it a refreshing option for sipping before a meal or relaxing with friends.

Praise Wines offers an exceptional white wine, Bistro Blanc, that is a blend of Viognier and Marsanne.

Made in Languedoc, France, this white wine offers an incredible balance of flavors, with a creamy texture and notes of peach, pear, and white grape gummy bears.

You can feel good about purchasing wines from Praise Wines because not only are they tasty and refined, but you’ll also be giving someone in need one year’s worth of clean water thanks to our partnership with water.org.

Is Viognier considered a dry white wine?

Yes, Viognier is generally considered to be a dry white wine. However, some producers make sweeter versions of the varietal using methods such as late harvesting or appassimento.

What food should I pair with Viognier?

Viognier pairs well with a variety of dishes. It is an excellent accompaniment for fish and seafood dishes, as well as white meat and creamy sauces. It also pairs well with goat cheese, vegetables, and Asian cuisine.

Is Viognier similar to Chardonnay?

No, Viognier is quite different from Chardonnay. While both are white wines that offer a full-bodied flavor, Viognier tends to be softer and more aromatic than Chardonnay. Additionally, it has a lower acidity level and can age well if properly stored.

What is the best way to serve Viognier?

The optimal serving temperature for Viognier is between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It should be served in a smaller bowl-shaped glass to capture its aroma and enhance the overall drinking experience.