The name says it all: Question d’Équilibre – it’s all a matter of balance. With this single-varietal Viognier, Hugo & Pauline Villa, the next generation of the Villa winemaking family, present a wonderfully lighthearted interpretation of the grape variety from the northern Rhône.
The vines grow on barren soils of schist and gneiss over granite. Deliberately harvested a little earlier, the focus here is not on the opulent, exotic side of Viognier, but rather on freshness, tension, and drinkability. Spontaneously fermented and aged predominantly in stainless steel, supplemented by a smaller portion in used barrels and demi-muids, the fruit remains correspondingly clear and precise.
On the nose, there are notes of peach, apricot, and yellow fruits, accompanied by white flowers and a fine spice. On the palate, the Question d’Équilibre possesses the typical supple texture of Viognier, yet remains juicy, fresh, and surprisingly straightforward. A fine mineral streak provides tension and an animating finish.
A Viognier for those who sometimes find Condrieu a touch too powerful. Aromatic and charming, but with enough freshness and structure to avoid becoming flabby. Exactly the balance that the name promises.
