Viognier (Vee-own-Yay) is a wine that has taken an extreme backseat in the past to Chardonnay, yet shares a lot of similarities.

This grape is originally from the Northern Rhône region of France. And, while France still grows approximately one-third of the world’s Viognier grapes, it is also grown in the U.S., Italy, Argentina South Africa, Argentina, Chile and New Zealand.

Viognier is golden yellow in color, medium to full-bodied. It’s typically described as having floral notes along with flavors of stone fruits and tropical fruits (e.g., aromas of rose and honeysuckle with peach, tangerine, and mango flavors). And, it can finish with subtle bitter notes.

It’s also known for having a bit of an oily texture on the palette has well as having a creamy soft texture when aged in oak.

So, if you like Chardonnay, you may want to say “Viognier” next time you are looking for a terrific white wine. Cheers!