Viognier

With time springing forward and temperatures rising, its time to start cracking open white wine bottles! I know this spring and summer we will talk about Chard, Sav Blanc (domestic and imported), but I want to really look at varietals that are not main stream. So tonight we will get short preview of Viognier.

The Origin of the name Viognier is also obscure. The most Common namesake is the French city of Vienne, which was a major Roman outpost. Another legend has it drawing its name from the Roman pronunciation of the via Gehnnae, meaning the "the road to hell"

However what pushes me to this grape is flavor profile. Its major components are floral like nose and Muscat wines. It is to be consumed early, even though laid down it will improve, but I tend to find its floral notes gone after three years. I tend want my Viognier to be young and fresh.

Tonight’s bottle of wine is Bridlewood Reserve ($15) from the Central Coast of Cal. It shows great depth in the nose. I tend to pick up lilac, and tropical fruit. Its growing a fan base here in the states and many are saying its the new Chardonnay. Only time will tell.

Cheers!