When Viognier is good, it can be great. I remember first being introduced to the grape in the early 1990s. Then, it was quite rare, with a reputation for being difficult to grow. Now you get it everywhere, and it can be very ordinary. When it fulfils its promise, however, it produces the most beautiful aromatic, balanced whites with a unique personality.
Domaine La Condamine l’Évéque Viognier 2011 Côtes de Thongue, France
12.5% alcohol. An utterly beautiful expression of Viognier. Rounded yet fresh with open pear and peach fruit, as well as a hint of lychee on the lovely broad mid-palate. Appealing stone fruit characters dominate this beautifully poised wine, which is deliciously poised. Full flavoured but not at all heavy. (£9.80 Tanners)
Viognier can be quite a gamble, its true. Thanks for highlighting this one.
I saw a Viognier from Tahbilk the other day so might take a chance?
Bob Alberta
I have five of six purchased last year when we rented a house in Nezignan l’Eveque. They also do a 100% Petit Verdot which I think was mentioned in the Guide Hachette. They do a number of single grape wines and an assemblage red. Not expensive at the cellar door(no credit cards) and even cheaper at the Carrefour in Pezenas which is probably only 2/3 miles away.