It is native to the northern Rhône Valley and, according to some research, is closely related to Syrah. Some narratives link the variety's history with Emperor Probus, but to the best of our knowledge, this mostly remains a legend. Based on some sources, it had almost completely disappeared from the vineyard map as it had been so relegated to the background. However, the variety is now experiencing a kind of renaissance. It is aromatic yet not exaggerated, as well as boasting elegant floral notes, creamy texture and full body.
Outside its southern French home of the northern Rhône and Condrieu, it is also found in large areas of Languedoc-Roussillon as well as in Italy. It is also increasingly found in the United States, in California, and other New World wine-producing regions.
Viognier is a permitted variety in Hungary and is grown on approximately 15 hectares, unlike neighbouring Austria, where it is found, but the variety may not be mentioned on the label. It can be found in a handful of Hungarian regions, primarily in the Etyek-Buda, Eger and Szekszárd wine districts. Initial experiments with the variety are connected to the name of Tibor Gál. It can be found both as a monovarietal wine and in blends such as Egri Csillag.
It is undoubtably an aromatic variety thanks to its monoterpenes. However, it does not deliver an overdose of Muscat notes but is rather dominated by peach blossom and the fleshiness and fragrant fruitiness of apricots. It is characterised by an oily texture, pronounced alcohol, full body and moderate acidity. Its delicate spiciness adds further nuance to its complexity and high quality. However, they are not generally wines to be laid down.