Chamarré Grand Reserve Viognier 2005 (Vin de Pays Vignobles de France)

Another new French wine from the Chamarré brand is this white which is made from 100% Viognier grapes, half from the northern Rhone and half from the Languedoc appellation. It is aged 6 months in oak. The grapes from the northern Rhone come from the AOC Condrieu where Viognier may have originated. Straw colored with floral aromas, a hint of oak and summer fruits, the palate is a big citrus and apple butter burst of color. This is in the $12 range at The Wine Room of Forest Hills.

Note: Chamarré is the first brand to take advantage of the new French wine appellation, "Vin de Pays Vignobles de France" which allows blending across regions. Founder Pascal Renaudat and winemaker Renaud Rosari have access to sources from cooperatives across the country and now can blend the best of each.