Santo Tomas, Valle de Santo Tomas (Baja California, Mexico) Viognier 2018

 Beginning as a mission making sacramental wine, Santo Tomas eventually evolved into Baja’s first commercial winery opening in 1888.  Its winemaking premise is located south of the Guadalupe Valley.  Today it has grown to become one of the largest Mexican wineries with an annual production of over 100,000 cases.  While still producing old standbys like Chenin Blanc, Barbera, and Cabernet, it has upped its game by focusing on Rhone varieties and unusual blends.  This 100% Viognier is stainless steel fermented and sees no oak.  The result is a wine displaying fresh cut melon and peach aromas.  Round but balanced, it is lively on the palate and comes to a clean, cleansing finish with a juicy melon aftertaste.