2022 Domaine de Mont Auriol, Viognier

ABOUT THE WINE
Situated in the Herault region that borders the Mediterranean Sea, the Domaine de Mont Auriol was once a Royal Estate and has belonged to the Sarret family since 1488 - a lineage now stretching back thirteen generations. Of the 350 hectares of the estate 110 hectares are planted with vines and the vineyard is spread across a chain of hills that face south over the Golfe du Lion. The vines are canopy trained and they employ no herbicides, preferring instead organic fertilizers and other sustainable, biodynamic practices. A mechanical harvest is carried out followed by total de-stemming and then maceration and fermentation in stainless steel, concrete and fibreglass vats. Their wine benefits further from being bottled at the domaine itself, travelling no further than their own on-site plant.

TASTING NOTES
A rich, viscous and aromatic gem, Viognier is a grape that never ceases to amaze the senses with floral lilacs, luscious apricots and honeysuckle. This brilliantly affordable example from Languedoc delivers wonderful aromatic intensity without being overly viscous thanks to its fresh finish. Even the complexity of the grape comes through as almond skin and toasted hazelnuts.

FOOD PAIRING
An amazing accompaniment to smoked mackerel, caesar salad with anchovies and rotisserie chicken with roasted potatoes or hearty baked beans.

FRIARWOOD SAYS
A very easy style of viognier, fresh, fruity and perfect with lighter summery dishes.