The Grape
Viognier originates from the Rhone Valley in France, where it produces aromatic, full-bodied white wines, especially in the Condrieu appellation. Over time, Viognier has expanded globally to regions such as California, South Africa, Australia, and more recently, Israel.
Viognier is best known for its rich aromas of peach, tangerine, mango, honeysuckle, and rose, with a fuller mouthfeel and softer acidity compared to many other white varieties. Its aromatic profile can be highly expressive, though its naturally low acidity can make achieving balance challenging, especially in warmer climates. In Israel, Viognier has proven successful when grown at higher elevations, where cooler night temperatures help preserve freshness while still allowing the grapes aromatics to fully develop.
Historically, Viognier came dangerously close to extinction by the 1960s, when only a few dozen acres remained planted in its native Northern Rhone. Low yields, ripening difficulties, and economic pressures contributed to its decline. Global interest revived the grape starting in the 1980s, eventually leading to expanded plantings worldwide, including Israel.
The Winery
Psagot Winery is located in the Jerusalem Hills north of Jerusalem, with vineyards planted at elevations ranging between 550 and 900 meters above sea level. The regions limestone-rich soils and significant day-to-night temperature shifts provide favorable conditions for varietals that benefit from extended ripening while maintaining balance.
Psagot integrates modern winemaking technology with the regions ancient winemaking history, symbolized by an ancient coin discovered on the property that features on the winerys labels.
Takeaway From Drinking This Wine
With Psagots Viognier, I found it challenging to separate out many specific aromas or flavors while drinking it. I later read that Viogniers rich aromatics often blend closely together, and that even experienced tasters sometimes find it difficult to break apart the wines different components. One small detail that stood out before tasting was the shape of the bottle itself. Unlike many of the white wines Ive had, this bottle had sloped shoulders, which Ive learned is traditionally associated with Rhone varietals like Viognier. Noticing these kinds of visual cues is helping me better connect grape varieties to their regions of origin as I continue exploring Israeli single varietals. Even with the challenge of identifying specific aromas, it was a lovely and enjoyable white wine offering a smooth, rich expression that reflects Viogniers distinct style.
