If you’re a wine lover, you’ve probably seen the name “Viognier” pop up on a wine list or two. Viognier pronunciation can be tricky at first, but this aromatic white grape, known for its fragrant bouquet and rich texture, is worth mastering. In just a few steps, you’ll be saying it like a pro.

How to Say “Viognier”

Viognier is pronounced: vee-ohn-yay.

Break it down like this:

  • Vee – This is the first syllable, just like “V” in the alphabet.
  • Ohn – The “gn” combination is said like a soft “ny” sound, almost like the French word “on.” Imagine a light, nasal “on” sound.
  • Yay – End with a cheerful “yay!”

Put it all together: vee-ohn-yay.

Viognier pronunciation showing Viognier grapes on the vine
Viognier grape cluster at Catie’s Corner Vineyard

Viognier’s Story: From France to California

This varietal originally hails from the Rhône Valley in France, a region celebrated for its ancient vineyards and distinctive terroir. Thought to be one of the oldest known grape varieties, it has a fascinating story that reflects both its elegance and rarity. In the mid-20th century, this grape’s plantings dwindled in France, and it was nearly lost. However, as its unique qualities began to gain attention, particularly its lush floral aromas and complex flavor profile, it found new popularity among winemakers worldwide.

Today, Viognier is grown in various regions, from its native Rhône to California, where it continues to impress with its opulent aroma and flavor. At McKahn Wines, our own 2023 vintage from the Russian River Valley received a 90-point score from Wine Enthusiast. We’re thrilled to work with such an exceptional grape and bring out the best in its character with each vintage.

What Makes This Wine Special?

Viognier stands out for its beautiful aromatic profile and rich body, qualities that set it apart from other whites like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Known for scents of apricot, peach, and honeysuckle, it’s the perfect white wine for those who appreciate a sensory experience with each sip. It has a full-bodied mouthfeel with flavors ranging from ripe stone fruit to hints of citrus and spice. Often compared to Chardonnay, it’s equally lush but typically without the oak influence. Our version is made sur-lie (pronounced “sewr lee”), french for meaning “on the lees”. The wine stays in contact with the lees (dead yeast cells and other sediment) for half of the time it is in barrel, usually about three months. This aging process adds complexity and provides that creamy mouth feel you receive when you drink the wine.

Food Pairings

Given its rich texture and fruity, floral notes, it’s a versatile wine for pairing. Here are some food pairing ideas to bring out the best in this unique wine:

  1. Seafood – The wine’s subtle acidity pairs well with shellfish, especially scallops, crab, and lobster. Its floral and stone fruit notes complement the sweet, delicate flavors of seafood. Dungeness crab is my absolute favorite pairing with our Viognier. Here is an easy recipe to prepare this tasty Crustacean.
  2. Spicy Cuisine – Try it with Thai or Indian dishes! The wine’s richness and fruitiness help to balance spicy flavors, making each sip refreshing and cooling between bites.
  3. White Meats – Pair it with roast chicken, turkey, or pork dishes. This wine’s body and aromatic qualities enhance the savory notes in these meats while keeping the palate fresh.
  4. Soft and Semi-Soft Cheeses – Creamy cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or Gouda match Viognier’s rich body, creating a harmonious texture on the palate.
  5. Vegetarian Dishes – Viognier shines alongside dishes that incorporate root vegetables, roasted squash, or mushrooms, especially when spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, or herbs like thyme and rosemary.

Embracing the Unique Viognier Experience

So next time you’re perusing a wine list and spot Viognier, go ahead and order it with confidence. Let vee-ohn-yay roll off your tongue as smoothly as the wine flows into your glass. Whether you’re looking to impress friends with your pronunciation skills or simply savor an exquisite wine, Viognier is a rewarding choice for both novice wine lovers and seasoned connoisseurs alike.

At McKahn Wines, we take pride in offering our beautiful varietal to wine enthusiasts who are eager to explore this unique varietal. We invite you to discover the elegance and complexity that Viognier brings to the glass. Cheers to new adventures in wine—one sip at a time!