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White wine | Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada
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Discover the exceptional character of the 2023 Wits End Vineyard Viognier from the renowned La Frenz Estate Winery, located on the prestigious Naramata Bench in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. La Frenz has firmly established itself as a benchmark for quality in Canada, and this Viognier is a testament to their meticulous vineyard management and craft.
This wine is a delightful sensory experience, showcasing the unique potential of the Okanagan terroir. Upon pouring, you are greeted by an enticing aromatic profile of orange blossom, fresh tangerine, and ripe apricot, perfectly intertwined with delicate notes of white peach. On the palate, the wine reveals impressive weight and a luxurious, viscous texture—the hallmarks of a well-ripened Viognier that has benefited from careful lees ageing. While it possesses a rich, fruit-forward presence, it remains balanced by crisp, food-friendly acidity that prevents it from feeling heavy.
The 2023 vintage was handled with precision: hand-harvested and gently pressed, with a portion of the juice fermented in concrete eggs and a touch of neutral French oak to enhance complexity. The result is a wine that feels both opulent and elegant.
This is a versatile food wine. Its aromatic intensity and palate weight make it a magnificent companion for dishes with complex spice or richness. It pairs beautifully with a fragrant North African chicken tagine, a creamy saffron risotto, or a rich duck curry. Alternatively, try it alongside roast turkey or even moderately spicy Thai cuisine, where its ripe fruit notes can stand up to heat.
We recommend enjoying this charming Viognier upon release to appreciate its vibrant fruit characteristics. However, if you are inclined to cellar it, it will develop secondary notes of mineral and golden hay over the next 3 to 5 years, gaining even more textural depth. Whether you are looking for a special bottle to elevate your dinner party or simply wish to enjoy a top-tier example of Canadian viticulture, this La Frenz Viognier is a spectacular choice that captures the sunny, vibrant essence of the Naramata Bench.
Wow, what a lovely surprise! It has such a lush, velvety mouthfeel and gorgeous apricot notes. Even though I usually lean toward lighter reds, I really enjoyed how vibrant and balanced this is.