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Learn more about Viognier…
Its history in the Côte-Rôtie
According to legend, Viognier originates from Dalmatia and was brought to France by the Emperor Probus. The latest scientific research has identified its real origins to be wild vines of the northern Côtes-du-Rhône. For a long time, Viognier was known only through Condrieu wines, where it was planted in a relatively small area. Phylloxera and World War I caused the vines to be abandoned, and Viognier survived on just a few hectares (8 hectares in 1965). In 1986, there were only 20 hectares of Viognier left in Condrieu. Little by little, more vines were planted and there are now 120 hectares of Viognier vines.
Viognier’s international expansion
In France, it is the sole grape used in Condrieu and neighbouring Château-Grillet.
It is also traditionally used as a complementary grape in Côte-Rôtie (up to 20% of plantation with Syrah).
Since the 1990s, Viognier has also become popular in the Midi, either with other varieties or alone. In 2006, France had 3255 hectares of Viognier.
It is also traditionally used as a complementary grape in Côte-Rôtie (up to 20% of plantation with Syrah).
Since the 1990s, Viognier has also become popular in the Midi, either with other varieties or alone. In 2006, France had 3255 hectares of Viognier.
This variety is also used in Italy, Spain, Greece, Switzerland and even Austria. However, it is outside Europe that Viognier has been the greatest success. It is one of the main American white varieties, especially in California. It is also very popular in Australia, where it accounts for 70% of the area planted with white grapes.
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