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Viognier Reserve2021

22.00

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Viognier Reserve

Planted widely now in many regions of Virginia, Viognier evolves so vividly in our Piedmont terroir that we were the first to abandon oak and malolactic fermentation to reveal the complexity within its warm climate sultriness, and the vitality of middle palate sustaining its floral opulence. A wine of full body and adaptability with game as well as the traditional pairings of fish, shellfish, poultry and Asian cuisine.

 

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Discovering more in Viognier

Year

2021

Cellar Life

7yrs

The season opened in late March on a note of suspense - early bud break and frost threats, which were mitigated by our wind machines. Perfectly timed spring rains then allowed for a superior bloom of the clusters in early June. Ideally, from early July we received 7 weeks of very warm and dry weather. Manual watering took place in some parcels with low water retention, and in mid-August we received needed rain. Harvest took place at optimal ripening times between August 14th and September 21st. The 2021 weather gifted us with some of the most admirably balanced wines we have produced, reminiscent of the elegance we saw in Octagon 2009, winner of our 4th Governor’s Cup.

James Suckling.com 92 Points
Fermentation In stainless steel at 68ºF for 10 days, no malolactic fermentation
Aging On the lees in stainless steel for 8-10 months
Composition Viognier 100%
Analysis Alcohol, 13.0
Residual Sugars, 0.2
Total Acidity, 0.63

Food Pairings

Venison scaloppine in Viognier and lemon juice

Pan-fried blue crab cakes & braised mushrooms

Sea scallop gratin in cream sauce with fresh basil

Tasting Notes

Absence of oak aging combines with extravagant lees contact and exclusion of oxygen in stainless steel to protect and concentrate welcoming aromatics and luscious flavors, fine for cellaring. Juicy and bright pear, passion fruit, and hints of citrus on a gently herbal frame.

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