My kingdom, my kingdom, for a Viognier that can convey the beauty and elegance of this often overlooked, and unappreciated grape.  The more common blending partner to Chardonnay, Roussane, and others, Viognier has the power as a young grape to have the grace and balance of a ballerina, and all the floral touches of a wedding.  While the most famous hails from Condrieu in France, Viognier radically grew in California along the central coast in the early 2000’s.  Thanks to California’s good growing season in 2013, 2013 Honey Moon Viognier could prove quite good, if it isn’t too old after two years.  

Sight:  On appearance, 2013 Honey Moon Viognier is actually quite pale, toward the medium end of the straw spectrum.

Smell:  Apricot and honey jump out immediately, but floral notes like honeysuckle are quick to play backup.  Just a hint of coconut and unripe nectarine join the party.

Sip:  On the palate, 2013 Honey Moon is lively, perking up with a blast of apricot and honeysuckle.  Coconut and lemon play around the edges, with just the slightest undercurrent of unripened stone fruit.  The mouthfeel is full, but still dances on the tongue with an elegance it seems unlikely to have.

Savor:  The ending is a little muted, with more of a violet and honeysuckle note.  The floral notes are drawn out, but not oppressive, and keeps a slight amount of the apricot notes.

2013 Honey Moon Viognier is elegant, and a great example of what a young Viognier can be.  The play of a heavy body and graceful touch of acidity, mixed with floral notes leaves a great impression.  With those characteristics in mind, this is a great choice of wine for spicier dishes from Thai or Indian cuisines.  Richer fishes like monkfish will also do well here.  If you like viognier or want to try it, pick up a bottle of 2013 Honey Moon, it’s a great example for the money.

Verdict: Full bodied, lively mouthfeel, coconut, apricot, floral
Price: $9.99
Manteca, California