Crane Canyon Cellars
1999 "North Coast" Viognier

The Viognier grape comes from the commune of Condrieu in the northern Rhône Valley of France. Once only available in minuscule quantities, Viognier began to be planted in California around 1980. The grape is notoriously difficult to vinify; many wines produced are heavy-handed versions of France's original. The winemaking challenge lies in achieving the critical balance between the delicate flavors and aromas. Our winemaking techniques as well as our philosophy strive toward a return to the varietal source in Condrieu, France. We obtain grapes from the cooler Mendocino region which has a slower, therefore longer, ripening period, and retain their good acidity. The signature of Viognier is its distinctive aroma- honeysuckle, peaches, pears and candied lemon-orange rind. These delicate flavors carry through in a medium-textured wine balanced with crisp acidity and clean finish. Dried apricots and stone minerality linger on the palate as well, making the wine a nuanced sensory experience.

Winemakers' Notes

Michael Lonsford, wine writer for the Houston Chronicle, said it best. "The 1999 Crane Canyon Cellars Viognier is what the grape is all about." We believe that Viognier benefits most from maintaining its intriguing fruity characteristics, rich in honey-suckle, fig, and should have a perfumed aroma rich in these fruits. To this end, we make our Viognier as "clean" as possible. Not trying to make a "little Chardonnay", we ferment completely in stainless steel and block the wine from going through malo-lactic fermentation. This allows for the pure expression of Viognier. A wine that pairs wonderfully with most foods, from light summer fare to Thanksgiving dinner.

Winemakers & Owners: Gardner Britt, Chuck Elsbree & Patrick Imbimbo

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