If you had to use one word to describe the flavor profile of Viognier, it would be exotic. Aromas of this lovely variety range from peach pie and cream to pineapple and honeysuckle. Famed for its role as the grape of the rare white wine Condrieu from France's Rhone Valley, dozens of California producers, from Lodi to Santa Ynez Valleys now work with Viognier, as do a few producers in Washington State and even in Virginia.

The distinctive fruit perfumes are so engaging, thus the use of oak is diminished in most versions of domestic Viognier. Most are delicious wines that are at their best at an early age; consume within three to five years of the vintage date. Pair these wines with Asian, Thai or fusion cuisine - especially with pineapple or peanut sauce - or sushi/sashimi.