Francois Villard 'Contours de Deponcins' - Viognier

This 2022 Viognier comes from the IGP Collines Rhodaniennes in France. Francois Villard, once a chef, fell in love with winemaking. After becoming a sommelier, he got 4 hectares of uncultivated land in Condrieu and made his first vintage in 1991 with a local vintner. Now, his domaine spans over 40 hectares, and his wines are highly sought - after in the region. He credits sustainable and organic methods for his success, letting the terroir shine. This floral and fresh white wine has flavors of ripe pear, orange, apple blossom, and apricot, with a hint of salinity and smoke. It pairs perfectly with shellfish or a mild curry and can be cellared for up to 5 years.

To enjoy this Francois Villard Viognier, first, chill it in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving. It's best served at around 45 - 50°F. Pour it into a white - wine glass and take a moment to smell the floral and fruity aromas. When it comes to food pairing, as mentioned, shellfish and mild curries are great choices. You can also try it with light salads or soft cheeses. For cellaring, if you choose to keep it for up to 5 years, store it in a cool, dark place with a stable temperature and humidity. Avoid placing it near strong - smelling substances as wine can absorb odors easily. And remember, if you're not finishing the whole bottle, use a wine stopper to keep it fresh for a day or two.