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Winespeak: Van Westen Vineyards Viognier 2008

March 10th, 2010 Write a Comment  Print This Post

Who – Van Westen Vineyards

What – Viognier 2008

Where – Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley

Why – This wine has sold out quickly every year – and expect the same with this vintage – as it’s their best Viognier yet.  As the vines mature, the flavours evolve and gain complexity.  Sweet melon and ripe apricots greet you in the nose, and a creamy palate of tropical pineapple, nectarine, orange blossom and honey follow.  A fresh limey minerality runs throughout to the spiced lingering finish.

When – This is a big weighty wine – pair with weighty food – would be a nice go with the start of halibut season here on the coast.

How (much) – $25

Winespeak of the Week – Rob Van Westen has a thing for V’s.  In addition to Viognier, they have also released Vino Grigio (ha! Pinot Grigio) and Vivacious (Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris) and Voluptuous (Merlot and Cabernet Franc). Rob’s family has grown tree fruits around Naramata for 50 years, and his vineyards have taken over some of the family’s old orchard land.  Obviously a smart move on his part – his farming passion is for grapes.