Viognier is a white wine grape variety known for its full body, intense aromatics, and flavours of peach, apricot, honeysuckle, and spice. It is often compared to other full-bodied white wines such as Chardonnay, but Viognier typically has higher acidity and lower alcohol than Chardonnay.
Here are some alternative grape varieties that you may taste if you like Viognier:
- Marsanne: This white grape variety is often blended with Viognier in the Rhône Valley region of France. Marsanne is known for its rich, creamy texture and pear, apple, and almond flavours.
- Roussanne: Another white grape variety often blended with Viognier, is known for its full body and flavours of peach, apricot, and honey.
- Grenache Blanc: This white grape variety is known for its high alcohol and flavours of tropical fruit, peach, and pear.
- Picpoul de Pinet: This white grape variety is known for its high acidity and refreshing flavours of citrus fruit, white flowers, and herbs.
- Sauvignon Blanc: This white grape variety is known for its high acidity and grassy, citrusy flavors.
- Gewürztraminer: This white grape variety is known for its intense aromatics of lychee, rose, and spice.
When trying alternative grape varieties to Viognier, it is important to consider your specific preferences. For example, if you enjoy Viognier’s full body and intense aromatics, you may like Marsanne, Roussanne, or Grenache Blanc. If you prefer Viognier’s high acidity and refreshing flavors, you may like Picpoul de Pinet or Sauvignon Blanc. And if you enjoy Viognier’s intense aromatics and unique flavors, you may like Gewürztraminer.
It is also important to note that Viognier can be produced in a variety of styles, from dry to sweet. When looking for alternative grape varieties, it is helpful to keep your preferred style in mind. For example, if you enjoy dry Viognier, you may like dry Marsanne, Roussanne, or Picpoul de Pinet. If you prefer off-dry or sweet Viognier, you may like off-dry or sweet Gewürztraminer.
Ultimately, the best way to find alternative grape varieties that you will enjoy is to experiment and try new things. There are many different grape varieties out there, and each one has its own unique flavour profile. With a little exploration, you are sure to find a grape variety that you will love.
As FabWines we are keen into Arneis.
Viognier and Arneis are two white grape varieties that share some similarities, but also have some key differences. Both grapes are known for their high acidity and aromatic profiles, but Viognier is typically fuller-bodied and more opulent, while Arneis is more delicate and refreshing.
Here is a comparison of the two grape varieties, highlighting the positive aspects of Arneis:
| Characteristic | Viognier | Arneis |
|---|---|---|
| Body | Full-bodied | Medium-bodied |
| Flavor profile | Stone fruits (peach, apricot, …), tropical fruits, honeysuckle, vanilla | Peach, apricot, citrus, melon |
| Acidity | High | High |
| Alcohol content | 13-15% | 12-13.5% |
| Food pairings | Rich seafood dishes, poultry, pork | Fish, shellfish, light pasta dishes |
Arneis is a versatile grape that can be used to produce a variety of wine styles, from dry sparkling wines to full-bodied still wines. It is also a relatively low-alcohol grape, making it a refreshing and approachable choice for many wine drinkers.
Here are some of the positive aspects of Arneis:
- Arneis wines are typically very aromatic, with notes of peach, apricot, citrus, and melon.
- Arneis wines are high in acidity, which makes them refreshing and food-friendly.
- Arneis wines are relatively low in alcohol, which makes them a good choice for people who are looking for a lighter wine.
- Arneis is a versatile grape that can be used to produce a variety of wine styles, from dry sparkling wines to full-bodied still wines.
- Arneis is a relatively unknown grape variety, so it is a great choice for wine drinkers who are looking for something different.
If you are looking for a white wine that is aromatic, refreshing, and food-friendly, then Arneis is a great option to consider.
Photo by Alissa De Leva
Lavaux-Oron District, Switzerland
Canon, EOS 450D
Used under the Unsplash License
Thank you for the informative post and for the suggestion! Funny enough Gewurtztraminer is another of my favourites alongside Viognier! I look forward to tasting the others!