Discover Australian Viognier
Fragrant, full-bodied, and flourishing in Australia’s diverse wine regions, Viognier is an alluring white varietal known for its rich texture and expressive aromatics. Though its roots trace back to France’s Rhône Valley, Viognier has found a new home in Australian vineyards, where its exotic floral bouquet and stonefruit profile have earned it a loyal following among wine lovers.
Whether enjoyed as a single varietal, blended with its white partners Roussanne and Marsanne, or blended with Shiraz, Viognier offers a unique drinking experience worth discovering.
Explore our Viognier varietal selection to uncover the best expressions of this captivating white wine.
What is Viognier Wine?
Viognier is a white grape variety originally hailing from the northern Rhône in France. Revered for its powerful aromas and full-bodied palate, Viognier is distinct for its perfumed notes of apricot, honeysuckle, peach and musk. In the vineyard, it's a challenging grape to grow - prone to mildew and requiring precise harvesting to capture its signature balance of acidity and flavour.
Viognier is made from white grapes and delivers a golden hue in the glass, and its flavours are rich and bold. It's often considered to be the richest white variety.
Is Viognier Red or White Wine?
Viognier is a white wine. Despite its richness and often bold flavour profile, Viognier is made from white-skinned grapes and delivers a golden hue in the glass.
What is Viognier Grape?
The Viognier grape is known for its thick skins and low acidity. It's often picked at optimal ripeness to preserve its aromatic intensity while avoiding flabbiness on the palate. Traditionally from France, it’s now cultivated worldwide, especially in Australia and the United States.
How to Pronounce Viognier
Viognier is pronounced “Vee-on-yay”—a nod to its French heritage.
How Does Viognier Taste Like?
Viognier wines are prized for their aromatic bouquet and plush texture. Expect notes of apricot, peach, mango, honeysuckle and orange blossom, with a creamy or oily mouthfeel. Some styles are matured in oak, adding hints of spice and vanilla.
Is Viognier Sweet?
Viognier is typically dry, though its fruit-forward nature and fuller body can give the impression of sweetness.
Is Viognier Dry?
Yes, most Viognier wines are dry, particularly those made in Australia. However, some winemakers may leave a touch of residual sugar to enhance the fruit profile.
Is Viognier Like Sauvignon Blanc?
While both are white wines, Viognier is richer and more aromatic than Sauvignon Blanc. It lacks the elevated acidity and grassy notes common to Sauvignon Blanc, favouring a rounder, fruitier style.
Is Viognier Similar to Chardonnay?
Viognier shares a similar weight and texture with Chardonnay, particularly oaked versions. However, Viognier is more perfumed and floral, whereas Chardonnay can lean more full bodied with a creamy, buttery mouth feel depending on the level of oak..
Viognier in Australia
Australia has embraced Viognier with enthusiasm, particularly in cool to moderate climates where it can slowly ripen and develop complex aromatics.
Delicate yet textural, Eden Valley Viognier reveals lifted aromas of apricot, honeysuckle and white blossom. The high-altitude climate preserves freshness while allowing full flavour development and a graceful, creamy finish.
The Yarra Valley produces elegant, floral Viognier wines with balanced acidity—ideal for lovers of restrained styles.
In the Barossa Valley, Viognier shines in warmer conditions, producing rich, full-bodied wines often used in Shiraz-Viognier blends for added aroma and finesse.
The Hunter Valley is seeing growing interest in Viognier, with local producers crafting expressive and textural wines.
Cool-climate Adelaide Hills Viogniers are known for their vibrant fruit, floral lift and refreshing acidity, making them incredibly food-friendly.
Which Are the Best Viognier Brands in Australia?
Some of Australia’s top Viognier producers include:
• Yalumba (Barossa/Eden Valley) – A pioneer of Viognier in Australia.
• Clonakilla (Canberra District) – Celebrated for its Shiraz-Viognier blends and varietal wines.
• d’Arenberg (McLaren Vale) – Known for vibrant and quirky Viognier expressions.
• Artwine (Adelaide Hills) – Focused on alternative varietals, including award-winning Viognier.
• Brokenwood (Hunter Valley) – Offering a refined, aromatic take on the variety.
What Does Viognier Pair With?
Viognier pairs beautifully with fragrant and spice-laden dishes, such as Thai curries, Moroccan tagines, or Vietnamese lemongrass chicken. Its stonefruit character also complements roasted poultry, pork, and creamy cheeses.
How to Serve Viognier Wine
Serve Viognier slightly chilled - around 10-13°C - to enhance its aromatic expression while preserving its generous texture.
Should Viognier Wine Be Chilled?
Viognier should be chilled, but not too cold. Excessive chilling can mute its floral and fruity aromas. Aim for a cellar temperature to enjoy its full bouquet and depth.
How to Buy Viognier from Wine Selectors?
At Wine Selectors, we offer a curated selection of Australian Viognier wines from the country’s top regions and producers. Whether you’re after a food-friendly white or a bold varietal to sip and savour, browse our Viognier collection and experience the best Viognier Australia has to offer - delivered straight to your door.