6 Tips for Distinguishing Viognier from Chardonnay in a Blind Tasting
Ever wondered how experts can effortlessly distinguish between Viognier and Chardonnay in a blind tasting? In this post, a perfumer and several other wine connoisseurs share their top tips. The first insight focuses on the fragrance intensity and fruit profile, while the final piece of advice highlights the importance of considering the prevalence of Chardonnay. Discover a total of six expert insights to elevate your wine tasting skills.
- Focus on Fragrance Intensity and Fruit Profile
- Note the Viscous Texture of Viognier
- Check for Oak Influence in Chardonnay
- Identify Stone Fruit in Viognier
- Detect Subtle Bitterness in Viognier
- Consider the Prevalence of Chardonnay
Focus on Fragrance Intensity and Fruit Profile
As a perfumer, my first piece of advice would be to focus on your nose and really enjoy smelling the wine before any blind tasting. With these two wines, I home in on the following:
1. Fragrance Intensity: If it is highly floral and fruity, it is likely a Viognier. If subtler, then I would expect a Chardonnay.
2. Profile of the Fruit: If the fruits are more reminiscent of apricot, peach, and nectarine, it will be a Viognier. If you smell apple or citrus fruit (lemon, lime), then I would vote Chardonnay.
3. Acidity: Aromatic Intensity: When tasting the wine, I love the taste and mouth feel of the higher acidity in a Chardonnay but my digestion doesn't, which is why I tend to choose a Viognier with its softer acidity.
Note the Viscous Texture of Viognier
Viognier tends to have a more viscous texture and lower acidity compared to Chardonnay. This difference in texture can be a key indicator when distinguishing between the two wines.
Chardonnay's acidity often brings a crispness to the wine, whereas Viognier will feel richer on the palate. Take note of how the wine feels in your mouth to help identify it.
Check for Oak Influence in Chardonnay
Chardonnay is often aged in oak barrels, which gives it a distinctive influence that Viognier typically does not have. The presence of oak can add notes of vanilla, butter, and caramel to Chardonnay.
In contrast, Viognier generally has a purer expression of its fruit flavors, without the complexity added by oak. Checking for these oaky characteristics can guide you in your identification.
Identify Stone Fruit in Viognier
Viognier is known for its expressive stone fruit character, with flavors like peach and apricot being prominent. On the other hand, Chardonnay often exhibits a profile dominated by citrus fruits such as lemon and green apple.
This distinction in fruit flavors can be quite helpful when trying to tell the two apart. Pay attention to these flavor notes during your tasting.
Detect Subtle Bitterness in Viognier
A subtle bitterness on the finish is an important marker for Viognier. This bitterness is usually absent in Chardonnay, which tends to have a smoother finish.
Identifying this bitterness can aid significantly in distinguishing Viognier from Chardonnay. Next time you taste, be mindful of the aftertaste to help make your determination.
Consider the Prevalence of Chardonnay
Chardonnay is far more common, particularly from cooler climate regions. Because of this, you are more likely to encounter Chardonnay than Viognier in a blind tasting.
Knowing the likelihood of encountering each wine can also help guide your guesses. Familiarize yourself with the typical characteristics of Chardonnay from various regions.