Today, we raise our glasses to Viognier, the queen of aromatic white wines. As a wine connoisseur and cheesemonger, I am excited to celebrate this delicious and unique variety, today – the last Friday in April! It’s Viognier Day!

Viognier is a grape variety that is known for its powerful aromas and complex flavours. Originally from the Rhône Valley in France, Viognier is now grown all over the world, including in the UK. It is a relatively rare grape, making up only a small percentage of the world’s wine production, but it is highly prized by wine lovers for its rich, floral, and fruity character.

Viognier is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of foods, including spicy dishes, grilled meats, and creamy cheeses. It has a full-bodied texture and a rich, fruity flavour profile that makes it a perfect match for strong and bold cheeses.

One of my favourite cheese pairings with Viognier is a soft and creamy goats milk cheese called Sharpham Cremet. This cheese is made by adding extra double cream which gives it an  extremely creamy and rich taste and texture. This complemented by the full-bodied perfumed wine, creating a delicious and indulgent combination. Another excellent pairing is Sheep Rustler, a ewes milk cheese made by White Lake Dairy. This cheese is nutty with a lingering hint of sweetness and grassy notes. This is a perfect pairing for a warm summer’s day! 

When it comes to choosing a Viognier, look for wines that have a vibrant pale lemon to gold colour and intense aromas of apricot, peach, and honey. The wine will have a full – medium bodied texture, high alcohol and medium acidity with a long, lingering finish. Some of the best quality Viogniers come from Condrieu in France’s Northern Rhone, but there are also excellent examples from Australia, California, and even here in the UK.

So, let’s raise a glass to Viognier, the queen of aromatic white wines. Cheers to its unique and delicious flavours, and to the joy of pairing it with our favourite cheeses. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a curious beginner, Viognier is a wine that is sure to delight and surprise you.

Happy pairing,

Jess, xo