Light yellow in color with an assertive aroma of lychee nut, jasmine and lemon curd, this is a lovely interpretation of Viognier. Big and round on the palate, it remains lively with good citrus fruit along with crunchy melon flavors. The texture is heavenly and the wine brings it all home with a long lasting finish with some zing to it. This could serve as a benchmark West Coast Viognier that’s neither over the top in ripeness or alcohol nor one that relies on oak. I find many Viogniers start off great but disappoint or fall apart in the finish. Not this one. Native yeast fermented, It was aged “sur lees” for 11 months in 35% new French oak and later rested on the lees in stainless for 6 months. It seems likely to become even more complex with aging for 3 to 5 years. 133 cases were produced.
Padigan, Rogue Valley (Oregon) Viognier 2021
By Norm Roby