Viognier
by: Cathy Marston
Image by: Vrede en Lust Wine Farm
Super-cool and trendy Viognier - is this the new Great White Hope?
Origins and history:- Top-quality white grape of the Rhône Valley, frequently added to top red wines as well to give them additional aromas and perfume. Grew in popularity in the 90’s and now increased plantings in SA, both for blending and for making as single varietals. Tends to be quite alcoholic as it takes a long time to reach phenolic ripeness and also very prone to diseases.
Characteristics :- very distinctive aromas of peaches and apricots – both fresh and tinned. Can also have floral notes and some spices – cloves, ginger and cinnamon. Both wooded and unwooded versions frequently available and, because of the distinctive character, Viognier is one of the easiest varieties to identify in blends.
Famous wines:- Château Grillet, Condrieu (both France)
Good Local examples :- Vrede en Lust, Fairview, Rusticus
If it was a person: – Catherine Zeta Jones