Origin
The great white grape of the North Rhône – most pertinently in Condrieu – has travelled with mixed success to the south of France (as well as into the New World). It is incredible to think that some 40 years ago it almost died out as a variety through lack of interest (outside of Condrieu of course!).
Quite simply, at its best, Viognier is arguably the most hedonistic of all white varietals – with sumptuous perfume and exotic fruit flavours. Top Condrieus now come with a rather weighty price tag (though frankly for a treat it is definitely worth indulging in). We are delighted to find such a perky example from the Languedoc in the south of France.
Producer
Eric Monnin, Boutinot’s winemaker responsible for the Languedoc, is already familiar to us with his excellent Pasquiers Rosé. Here, he has turned his expert and very deft winemaking hand to this tricky variety. Produced from the estate owned by the Fayet family in the village of Moussan, near Nabonne, their Viognier is grown on soils with a mix of limestone, sand and shale. Eric has worked with the family since 1999 and the Serica (meaning silk in Latin we believe) single vineyard is their finest plot.
Grape Variety
100% Viognier.
All the juice is barrel fermented in a mix of new and old French oak barrels. Eric has integrated the toasty, vanilla notes of wood without suppressing any of the dried stone fruit, orange peel and mildly tropical fruit character of the Viogier grape – the combination is simply delicious.
Food Match
Pairs perfectly with new season English asparagus and hollandaise sauce. Try with seared scallops or pan-fried tiger prawns with garlic. A nice match for aromatic Vietnamese dishes and salads.
Suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Alcohol Percentage
14%
In the Press
Gold – Sommelier Wine Awards 2018 (2016 vintage)
Bronze – Sommelier Wine Awards 2017 (2015 vintage)
hewittgareth –
Intrigued to try this as some recent experiences of Viognier have been less than enjoyable. This however was a very good example of how good it can be. Delicious tropical fruit combined with well balanced oak, very enjoyable
ryanbrady1981 –
Honeysuckle on the nose; richly textured and nicely balanced with flavours of apricots and a satisfying delicate bitterness on the finish. Stunning Value!