My issue with most domestic Viognier is the general level of ripeness and alcohol, which I attribute to growing conditions for the most part. Too much is simply planted in areas too warm to deliver the high-toned aromas and fresh acidity that would remind anyone of the refreshing Viognier wines of Condrieu, in the northern Rhone Valley of France. The Chappellet is an exception, harvested from the Cold Creek Vineyard in the Carneros district, at the bottom of the Napa and Sonoma Valleys. It shows refreshing, mouth watering acidity with notes of honeysuckle blossom and persimmon, with a generous touch of spice. Bingo!
Chappellet, Carneros (California) Viognier 2017
By Robert Whitley