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
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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