Viognier

Viognier is a white wine varietal, originating from France, and is the only permitted grape for the French wine Condrieu, in the Rhone Valley. The varietal has been planted extensively around the world since the early 1990s, predominantly in France, Australia, United States, New Zealand and South Africa.

The varietal is found alone or commonly blended with Shiraz, contributing to the wine’s colour and aroma. Excellent examples of this blend can be found in Canberra District, notably Clonakilla.  Like Chardonnay, Viognier has the potential to produce full-bodied wines, yet in contrast, Viognier varietal has more natural aromatics that include notes of peach, roses and honeysuckle.

The grape requires a long, warm growing season to ripen fully but not a climate that is so hot that the grape develops high sugar levels and potential alcohol before its aromatic notes can develop. When grown in cooler climates, you will find flavours of oranges and apricots, whereas warmer climates exhibit much richer flavours of mango, pineapple and vanilla. The traditional Condrieu style exhibits sweet peach and flowers and is a more off-dry style.

As Viognier is a naturally low-yielding variety, it can be less economically viable for some vineyards.

Listed below are the wineries that produce Viognier.

To find your perfect Viognier at a winery with many other searchable features, click here.