Hawley Viognier 2009, Sonoma County

Vineyards

Native to the slopes of France's Rhone Valley, the Viognier grape appears to be especially well suited to our California climate. We sourced fruit for this wine from two vineyards in Sonoma County. A portion of the blend comes from our estate vineyard where we have been growing Viognier since 1983 (certified organic in 2002). We find that the warmer climate on the hillsides of Dry Creek Valley helps to develop tropical fruit and tangerine notes. The other vineyard is located on Dry Creek Road. The slightly cooler temperatures bring out citrus and apricot flavors in the grapes.

Winemaking

What really makes our style of Viognier unique is, of course, the winemaking. John Hawley has used the French style as a launch-pad and has added 30 years of experience making California wines. "The barrel fermentation and secondary fermentation processes are extremely vital to the development of roundness in the body, complexity in the mouth-feel and a lingering fruity finish", John explains. But, one need only take one sip to know why we have won 'Best of Class' at the State Fair for five yeas in a row!

Technical

Varietal Composition: 100% Viognier
Harvest Date: September 6, 2009
Alcohol: 13.9%
Bottling Date: March 3, 2010
Cases Bottled: 683
Release Date: April 1, 2010

Tasting Notes

This 100% Viognier shows intense tropical fruit cocktail. Its complex flavors mingle honeysuckle, pineapple, peach, apricot and orange blossoms. with a wonderfully light, clean fruity aroma. The mouth feel is smooth and buttery with moderate acidity, and a long fruity finish.