Vina Cono Sur Viognier 2010

Vina Cono Sur
Viognier 2010
Colchagua Valley, Rapel Valley, Central Valley DO, Chile
$11-13 +566836 available at BC Liquor Stores & select private liquor retailers
www.conosur.com

Happy Chinese New Year!

When thinking about a value wine (my annual January theme) to welcome in the year of the Dragon, Chile’s Cono Sur roared to the forefront. Since their start in 1993 this Chilean has been synonymous with value. Their M.O. is expressive, clean and modern wines, dialed into sustainability and quality while remaining affordable and accessible. That’s not that easy to do with such a massive operation. Cono Sur grows and harvests 1,800 hectares of vineyards from more than 100 different areas throughout the country.  Lauded winemaker Adolfo Hurtado has been at the charge of this push for innovation, and his Bicycle range of wines captures his value-driven values well. The Viognier is one of 11 varieties in the range, and one of the top for consistency year after year.

Fresh peach, perfumed apricot and citrus aromas are carried through on the juicy palate. Mid-weight, with spicy honey, white peach, starfruit, blossoms and a bright mandarin zest finish. For $11? Incredible! Pair with spiced Asian cuisine – will work with heat, ginger and sweet sauces.

88 Points

*January DRINKs will focus on budget-friendly selections, all ringing in under $17.

*Chile is the theme region of next month’s Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival. What you need to know HERE. Cono Sur Winemaking Manager Matias Rios will be at the Festival.