Naumes Family Vineyards, Rogue Valley (Oregon) Viognier 2019

($30):  This is the third consecutive year when Naumes Family Vineyard has hit the mark with Viognier, a notoriously difficult grape to tame.  I could easily cut and paste my reviews of their 2017 and 2018 for this one.  But, frankly, it is worth repeating because although balance is always key in wines, it is especially important with Viognier, whose window of ripeness is narrow.  Not ripe enough, you miss its gorgeous perfume.  Grapes too ripe, the wine is heavy.  Naumes walks the tightrope expertly with their 2019 Viognier, showing off the delicate and alluring perfume of the wine while keeping it fresh and lively.  Sushi anyone?
92 Michael Apstein Mar 23, 2021