Did you know . . . Viognier

This week's Quick Reviews both feature California viognier, a wine that might be unfamiliar to you (as it was to us before until our recent trip to Sonoma County in April 2011). A few facts on this grape:

• Viognier is pronounced "vee-on-yay".
• The grape originated in France, but is now produced around the world. 
• It's the only grape allowed in the AOC region of Condrieu, France, in the northern Rhone Valley.
• Viognier is difficult to grow, as it is prone to mildew. 
• Viognier grown in California is higher in alcohol content than when grown in other regions, likely to the region's warm climate, which gives the grapes a chance to ripen quickly.
• Viognier is best known for its floral aromas. It's considered an "aromatic wine."
• The grape is also known for apricot notes.
• Viognier is meant to be consumed young - within 1 or 2 years of harvest. Aging causes this wine to lose its lush aromas.