2006 Kongsgaard Viorous
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Tasting notes
(a 60/40 blend of roussanne and viognier, co-fermented) Bright lemon-yellow color. Pungent aromas of peach, lemon and spice, with little obvious viognier florality. Offers terrific energy in the mouth, with a dominant saline and mineral character conveying a strong impression of soil. The extremely long and vibrant finish shows a refreshingly bitter tannic edge. Kongsgaard say he's picking the roussanne earlier to maintain energy and to keep the alcohol level moderate (this one weighs in at about 14%), but notes that it's hard to avoid getting a tannic quality in the wine.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
One of California’s most exotic whites is Kongsgaard’s innovative blend of Roussanne and Viognier. It is reminiscent of some of Sine Qua Non’s whites. The 2006 Roussanne/Viognier (60% and 40% respectively) exhibits classic aromas of rose petals, lychee nuts, pineapples, honeysuckle, and a touch of lilacs. This exotic, exuberant wine will either be loved or hated by consumers. I happen to love it. Distinctive, full-bodied, and complex, it requires consumption during its first several years of life. John Kongsgaard’s Chardonnays come from the family’s 9-acre, high elevation, cool climate, Coombsville vineyard in southern Napa. His Syrah’s emerge from the Hudson Vineyard, a special block that was planted to his specifications. Previously recommended: 2004 Chardonnay (94), 2004 Chardonnay The Judge (98), 2004 Syrah Hudson Vineyard (90). Fax (707) 963-4512