Viognier [vee-ohn-yay]

Definition: A white grape, who's aroma and flavor is often described as a cross between chardonnay and gewurztraminer. One of the "Rhone" varietals. Used in making white Rhone wines and often blended into red Chateauneuf-du-Pape wines.

Grown primarily in: Canada, France (Rhone) and United States

Best Climate: Mild

Winemaking: Viognier benefits from a bit of oak to balance its abundance of fruit. So most wines see some barrel fermentation and barrel aging.

Nose: Spicy, floral, tropical fruit, citrus, apricot, apple, peach.

Mouth: Medium body, fruity, spicy. Medium to strong acids.

Note: Viognier is part of the Rhone movement sweeping the US. Some wineries, for example Zaca Mesa, are blending viognier in with their red "Rhone" blends as done in Chateauneuf-du-Pape.

Your Guide to the Varietal Grape

Varietal Facts

Select any varietal on the list below to learn the facts!

Barbera Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Sauvignon Chardonnay
Gamay Gamay Beaujolais
Gerwurztraminer Malbec
Merlot Nebbiolo
Petite Sirah Petite Verdot
Pinot Blanc Pinot Meunier
Pinot Noir Riesling
Sauvignon Blanc Sangiovese
Semillon Syrah
Viognier Zinfandel