Apricot, peach, paw-paw and vanilla are all accentuated by a refreshing lemon acidity
About 20% of the blend spends a little time in oak barrels which add some weight, softness and a delicate vanilla flavours. It’s quite a complex wine which would go with almost anything - Jon has a top tip...try it with a plate of good smoked salmon
Chile
Colchagua Valley
Colchagua Valley
Cono Sur
Viognier
13.5%
Screwcap
Drink now + 2 years
International Wine Challenge 2011
Bronze (
2010)
Decanter World Wine Awards 2011
Bronze (
2010)
International Wine Challenge 2010
Commended (
2009)
Wine Spectator
“A solid expression of Viognier, with almond, peach and melon notes backed by a hint on lemon zest on the finish. Nicely done." (2009 Vintage)
The Colchagua Valley region of Chile
This is Cabernet country. Colchagua is the southern half of the larger Chilean region of Rapel Valley, with the northern half being Cachapoal.
This valley has enjoyed particular success in recent years, partly buoyed by the continual success of the grape Cabernet Sauvignon, planting of which in this valley outstrips that of any other by around 400% on the last count.
Having crafted some great wines on the back of this grape, as well as Merlot, Carmenere and Malbec, that Colchagua is really making a name for itself for quality red wines, perhaps all the more so because the vineyard planting has been extended from the base of the valley floor up to the sides of the valleys.
Viognier
A powerful white grape that is famous for being the only grape allowed to be used in the Northern Rhône white wine Condrieu – it is here that perhaps the grape reaches its heights in terms of quality although some very good examples can be found from other parts of the world, e.g. California, Australia.
The wine has strong flowery aromas and is often said to smell of dried apricots. It makes rich, full white wines that have a lovely sharp acidity and should be drunk relatively young.
07.12.12
What We're Drinking: Georgia & Bolla Prosecco
Last month, we participated in 'The Spirit of Christmas' fair at Kensington Olympia where we were showcasing 12 wines that not only represented the wide variety that CellarVie Wines have to offer, but also the wines that we believe are perfect for the festive period. One of those wines was the Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene Bolla. This gorgeous sparkling wine hails from northern Italy, specifically from the Veneto region which is home to Prosecco, Soave and Valpolicella.
23.11.12
What We're Drinking: Georgia & Cono Sur Single Block Visión Viognier
I must admit that up until a few months ago I was not an avid wine drinker and had little knowledge about grape varieties and their differing flavour profiles. In an attempt to initiate me into the world of wines - where better to start than at CellarVie Wines - our resident wine-guru Simon suggested I try a Viognier.
21.06.12
The Tailor Made Wine Buyer Guide
There are a host of wine buyer guides across the web that often tell you what you should and shouldn’t be drinking – but how do these guides know what type of wine suits you and your palate? Sure, they are extremely helpful if you are seeking some enlightenment on wines you may never have heard of, but when it comes to parting with your hard-earned cash are you ready to take the plunge?
‘My Palate’ is a system that allows you to discover your own preferences, after all, wine is about exploration, enjoyment and understanding. Of course it wasn’t faultless at the start, but through rigorous testing, we think we have finally got there, so we found ourselves the perfect guinea pig to try it out…
29.03.12
Recipe: Roast Belly of Pork
Our roast pork belly recipe does need quite a bit of prep time but when you're preparing a guilty pleasure it's often worth it. The wine we've chosen to accompany this dish is also a pleasure - a lovely refreshing wine which Jancis Robinson praises highly. A Riesling from Chile - Cono Sur Single Block Visión Riesling 2009. The wine's zesty yet mouth watering properties are perfect to cut through the fat of the pork belly.
Salads & Vegetables
This wine is best suited to asparagus and avocado. Throw in some goat's cheese, olives and spinach and you'll have your dream salad.
Fish & Seafood
Shellfish and delicate white fish such as sole, skate and plaice are the perfect match for this wine. It would also work well with clam chowder and smoked fish.
Pasta & Other Sauces
Tartare sauce is a great accompaniment to this wine as well as Beurre Blanc or a light cream and fish based sauce.
Meats
Steamed, baked and casseroled chicken are a must for this wine but it works equally well with pork or veal.
Herbs & Spices
Pair with chives, coriander, dill and ginger. It also works well with lemongrass and lime.
Spicy Foods
A great wine to have with Thai dishes as it works with the lime and lemongrass qualities present in this aromatic cuisine.
Cheeses
Team this wine with high acid cheeses such as Chavignol and pecorino.