1999 Failla Viognier Alban Vineyard
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Tasting notes
I suspect the 100% barrel-fermented 1999 Viognier Alban Vineyard will be controversial as I can not think of another California Viognier that comes close to matching this wine's distinctive personality. The explosive bouquet offers scents of ginger, jasmine, honeysuckle, over-ripe oranges, and candied citrus. It is so exotic that I suspect some tasters will wonder what in the world is in front of them. While the perfume is similar to that of a sweet dessert wine, this gold-colored Viognier is totally dry. An exotic, intensely concentrated, individualistic expression of this varietal, it can be consumed over the next several years. Tel. (707) 942-4699
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Pale gold color. Peach marmalade, honey, pineapple and some resiny oak on the nose. Slightly sweet and high-toned on the attack, then honeyed and spicy in the middle. A dry wine but shows hints of botrytis. Holds its shape nicely on the finish.