90POINTS
16½/20
Van Westen Vineyards Viognier 2018
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNever shy and retiring, Van Westen's 2018 Viognier has a captivating varietal nose of apricot, jasmine, and curry leaf. The palate is awash with nectarine and meyer lemon, with a nice oily (in a good way) mid-palate richness that fattens the wine before bright Okanagan acidity slims it. Extravagance and restraint at the same time, which is a common Okanagan characteristic. The Naramata vineyards enjoy excellent exposure and soils, and the fruit is fermented in large neutral barrels to add textural complexity. Medium weight, with herbal, salty notes making it an interesting wine for food. Try pairing with blackened salmon or vegan jackfruit tacos. Like all Van Westen wines, they are pretty good on their own too.Tasted: 04 October 2019Tasted by: DJ KearneyPrices:BC | $25.00 | 750ml | winery online/direct, select private retailers |
Grape: ViognierCSPC: 681809UPC: 626990066293