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.
At a glance
- 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.
Detail
Viognier is most closely associated with Condrieu and Château-Grillet in the northern Rhône. It develops pronounced apricot, peach and floral aromas, while high ripeness can bring fuller body, higher alcohol and softer acidity. In Côte-Rôtie, Viognier may also be co-fermented with Syrah.
Similar grapes
Gewürztraminer
Similar full body, lower acidity and intense aroma.
Difference Gewürztraminer leans lychee and rose; Viognier apricot and peach.
Marsanne
Similar full body and softer acidity.
Difference Marsanne is much less aromatic, leaning pear, wax and almond.