Description

Padigan Estate Reserve Viognier 2021

96 pts – Norm Roby

“Light yellow in color with an assertive aroma of lychee nut, jasmine and lemon curd, this is a lovely interpretation of Viognier. Big and round on the palate, it remains lively with good citrus fruit along with crunchy melon flavors. The texture is heavenly and the wine brings it all home with a long lasting finish with some zing to it. This could serve as a benchmark West Coast Viognier that’s neither over the top in ripeness or alcohol nor one that relies on oak. I find many Viogniers start off great but disappoint or fall apart in the finish. Not this one. Native yeast fermented, It was aged “sur lees” for 11 months in 35% new French oak and later rested on the lees in stainless for 6 months. It seems likely to become even more complex with aging for 3 to 5 years.” 

Overview

Our estate’s Darow soils again provided exceptional Viognier fruit in 2021 that was perfectly suited to produce this Estate Reserve wine. The aromas open with apricot, lychee, pineapple, crunchy yellow apple, and toasted coconut that evolve on the palate. While decadently ripe the wine remains light on its feet and balanced through the detailed, rich finish that seems to last forever. We love the juxtaposition of intensity and delicacy, of power and elegance, that promises improvement with age. Potato gnocchi with gorgonzola cream sauce and walnuts, anyone? Enjoy 2024-2028.

Wine Information