Viognier vs Marsanne
Viognier
A full-bodied aromatic white grape with apricot, peach and honeysuckle, usually with relatively low acidity, and the grape of Condrieu in the northern Rhône.
- Apricot
- Low to medium acidity
- Oily texture
Recognize it
Full body with relatively soft acidity and a slightly oily texture. Apricot, peach and honeysuckle are classic. The aroma is usually pronounced.
Marsanne
A full-bodied white grape known for pear, almond and waxy texture, especially in the northern Rhône.
- Waxy full body
- Low to medium acidity
- Almond
Recognize it
Broad, waxy texture is a key clue, with relatively low acidity and restrained pear and almond notes. Honey and nutty flavors can develop with age.
How they compare
- SimilarFull body and softer acidity.
- DifferenceMarsanne is much less aromatic, leaning pear, wax and almond.
- SimilarFull body and relatively low acidity.
- DifferenceViognier is more aromatic, with apricot and floral notes.