Rhone whites to try: viognier and marsanne

The white varieties of France’s Rhone Valley were once a rarity among Australian producers, but their complexity and aptitude for food pairing is seeing their popularity rise. Try these.

The pinnacle expression of viognier in the Sutton Grange range, this wine encapsulates the purity of a single-varietal Rhone white. Pale-straw in colour with light hues of green, expect a medium body with aromas of white flowers, jasmine, cashew butter and citrus rind.

RRP $50 | 2022 | Sutton Grange

The grapes of Indigo Vineyard’s 2017 Viognier have undergone wild yeast barrel fermentation and maturation in older French oak. The result is a varietal viognier with a lovely freshness and just a hint of apricot. The wine retains its voluptuous phenolics without overpowering.  

RRP $35 | 2023 | Indigo Vineyard

2018 Tim Smith Wines Eden Valley Viognier

Winemaker Tim Smith describes this wine as having classic viognier characteristics – aromatic with a nose of nectarine and white peach. As is also typical of the variety, it has a highly textural and unctuous palate that gives way to a soft, acid finish.

RRP $30 | 2024 | Tim Smith Wines

Tahbilk’s 2019 marsanne is both intense and lifted. Scents of bright jasmine and lemon are notable, with a juicy palate of tropical and citrus fruits underscored by a taut minerality. With cellaring, this wine will develop toasty marmalade and honeyed traits.

RRP $19.70 | 2029 | Tahbilk