Viognier is typically known as a white wine, while Shiraz (or Syrah) is a bold red. However, in some of the world’s most iconic wine regions, particularly in the Northern Rhône Valley of France, these two grapes are often blended together to create complex, balanced, and aromatic wines. 

This might leave wine enthusiasts wondering: Why is Viognier added to Shiraz? The answer lies in the unique qualities that each grape brings to the blend, creating a harmonious combination that enhances both the taste and structure of the wine. In this blog, we’ll explore why Viognier is added to Shiraz and how these two grapes work together to produce exceptional wines.

The Rhône Valley Tradition: Co-Fermenting Viognier and Shiraz

The practice of blending Viognier and Shiraz dates back to the Côte-Rôtie appellation in the Northern Rhône Valley, where winemakers have long embraced this combination. In this region, winemakers often co-ferment a small percentage of Viognier (typically between 3-10%) with Shiraz to enhance the overall character of the wine. This technique is especially popular in Côte-Rôtie, where some of the world’s finest examples of this blend are produced.

Why Is Viognier Added to Shiraz?

Here are the key reasons why winemakers add Viognier to Shiraz, and how the combination elevates the wine:

Enhancing Aromatics

Viognier is known for its intense floral and fruity aromas, with notes of honeysuckle, apricot, and peach. When a small amount of Viognier is added to Shiraz, these aromas can enhance the bouquet of the wine, making it more fragrant and adding a layer of complexity to the typically bold and spicy profile of Shiraz.

Shiraz on its own can have powerful notes of blackberries, pepper, and smoke, but the addition of Viognier softens these characteristics and introduces a delicate floral fragrance. This aromatic lift is one of the primary reasons winemakers blend these two grapes together.

Adding Brightness and Colour

Another reason Viognier is added to Shiraz is to brighten the colour of the wine. Shiraz can sometimes have a deep, almost opaque colour, but the addition of Viognier can bring a touch of vibrancy to the hue, making the wine more visually appealing. Viognier’s golden tones can lighten the intense purple of Shiraz, giving the wine a more brilliant appearance in the glass.

This blending technique not only affects the appearance but can also add a touch of brightness to the flavour profile, making the wine feel more lively and refreshing on the palate.

Softening Tannins

Shiraz is known for its firm tannic structure, especially when grown in cooler climates like the Northern Rhône. While this structure is part of what gives Shiraz its boldness and ageability, it can sometimes be overpowering for those who prefer smoother wines. The addition of Viognier helps to soften the tannins, making the wine more approachable and balanced.

By rounding out the edges of Shiraz’s robust tannins, Viognier creates a wine that is still full-bodied but with a smoother, more refined texture. This makes the blend more versatile, appealing to a wider range of wine drinkers who may be looking for a softer red wine experience without sacrificing intensity.

Adding Complexity to Flavours

Viognier doesn’t just affect the aromatics and texture of the wine—it also contributes to the overall flavour complexity. While Shiraz brings rich, dark fruit flavours such as blackberry, plum, and peppery spice, Viognier introduces lighter, more delicate fruit and floral notes like peach, apricot, and jasmine.

This blend of flavours results in a wine that has layers of complexity, with a balance of dark and bright notes. The combination of Shiraz’s bold fruit and Viognier’s subtle sweetness creates a wine that is both powerful and elegant, with a long, nuanced finish.

Tradition and Modern Adaptation

The practice of blending Viognier with Shiraz is deeply rooted in tradition, particularly in the Côte-Rôtie region of France. This centuries-old technique has been adopted by winemakers in other parts of the world, including Australia, where some of the most celebrated Shiraz-Viognier blends are now produced.

In Australia, especially in regions like Barossa Valley and Hunter Valley, winemakers have experimented with this Rhône-inspired blend, often producing wines that are fruitier and more approachable than their French counterparts. This blend has become popular worldwide, as wine enthusiasts appreciate its balance of structure, aroma, and flavour.

Best Food Pairings for Viognier and Shiraz Blends

The complexity and balance of Viognier-Shiraz blends make them versatile for pairing with a wide range of foods. Here are some excellent food pairings for this blend:

• Grilled or roasted meats: The bold flavours of Shiraz complement grilled lamb, beef, or pork, while Viognier’s floral notes add a touch of elegance.
• Spicy dishes: The bright fruit and peppery notes of the blend work well with spicy dishes, such as spicy lamb curry or peppered steak.
• Roast duck or game meats: The richness of duck or game meats pairs beautifully with the layered flavours of a Viognier-Shiraz blend.
• Cheeses: The smooth tannins and aromatic complexity make this blend a great match for aged cheeses like cheddar or Gouda.

So, Why Is Viognier Added To Shiraz? 

The combination of these two grapes creates a harmonious balance of aromatic complexity, smooth texture, and depth of flavour. Viognier enhances Shiraz by softening its tannins, lifting its floral aromas, and adding brightness to both its colour and flavour profile. This blend has become a hallmark of the Côte-Rôtie region and is now celebrated worldwide for its versatility, elegance, and power.