Nettie Viognier 2021/23, California

If you love floral, fragrant, full-bodied whites then this delicious Viognier is an absolute must-try. California’s Viogniers fly a bit under-the-radar, so it’s a real bargain. It’s named ‘Nettie’ after Miss Nettie Valear who planted an acorn on the site of the now-vineyard in memory of Abraham Lincoln. Now a majestic oak, it’s a reminder that while California feels relatively ‘New World’, wine has been made there for more than two centuries. Classic varieties like Viognier flourish there. This wine is a case in point – it’s full of character. It’s big. It’s lush. It’s fruity. Full of peach and apricot flavours, with a really rich, round texture. Excellent with Thai spiced chicken or shellfish.