Life Style / Wine Grapes / Viognier: (Pronounced 'VEE-oh-nee-aye'). Semi-classic grape variety grown in the northern Rhone region of France. Has full, spicy flavors somewhat reminiscent of the Muscat grape and violets. Recent research indicates a clonal relationship to the Chasselas grape variety. New plantings in California have created much anticipation among that States wine community. Viognier wine can vary from almost Riesling-like character to almost Chardonnay character, depending on production method, but is not noted for ageing ability and is best drunk while young. Variety clones are currently undergoing trial by the Cornell Horticultural Research Unit (NY) for cool climate region suitability. Recently planted small commercial acreages in the eastern Finger Lakes region of New York state are now (1997) yielding enough grapes to allow one winery to make limited amounts of varietal wine.
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