Viognier is a highly aromatic and versatile white wine, known for its rich fruit flavours and floral aromas. With a full-bodied texture and lower acidity than many other white wines, Viognier can be paired with a wide variety of dishes. Whether you're enjoying a bold glass of Viognier from France's Rhône Valley or a fresh bottle from South Africa, the right food pairing can elevate your experience. So, what is Viognier good with? Let's explore some of the best dishes to pair with this delightful wine.

Viognier’s Flavour Profile: What to Expect

Before exploring food pairings, it's essential to understand the key characteristics of Viognier that make it such a great wine to pair with food. Viognier is typically a dry wine, but its fruity and floral aromatics often give the impression of sweetness. Key flavour notes include:

• Fruit: Peach, apricot, mango, and pear
• Floral: Honeysuckle, jasmine, orange blossom
• Spice: Subtle vanilla or nutmeg, especially in oak-aged Viogniers
• Mouthfeel: Full-bodied, with a smooth, sometimes oily texture

This combination of rich, fruity flavours and a full-bodied structure makes Viognier an excellent match for a range of bold and complex dishes.

Spicy Asian Cuisine

One of the best food pairings for Viognier is spicy Asian cuisine. The fruit-forward flavours and smooth texture of Viognier can balance out the heat from dishes such as:

• Thai green curry or massaman curry
• Indian dishes like chicken tikka masala or lamb korma
• Vietnamese spring rolls with sweet chilli sauce

Viognier’s lower acidity and rich fruitiness help tame the spice, while its floral aromas enhance the food’s exotic flavours.

Creamy Pasta and Risotto

Viognier pairs beautifully with creamy dishes, particularly those with rich, savoury flavours. The wine’s medium- to full-bodied nature complements the creaminess without being overpowering. Some great pairings include:

• Creamy prawn linguine
• Mushroom risotto
• Fettuccine Alfredo

The fruitiness of Viognier adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of these dishes, while the wine's smooth texture blends seamlessly with the creamy sauces.

Roasted Poultry and Pork

Roasted meats, especially poultry and pork, are excellent partners for Viognier. The wine’s fruity and floral notes enhance the savoury flavours of the roast while providing a balance to any sweet or fruity glazes. Some dishes include:

• Roast chicken with apricot glaze
• Roast pork with apple or pear sauce
• Duck à l'orange

The rich flavours of these dishes pair perfectly with Viognier’s full body and aromatic qualities, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Seafood Dishes

Viognier’s aromatic complexity and full body make it a great match for seafood, especially richer or more flavourful preparations. Some recommended pairings include:

• Grilled lobster with garlic butter
• Seared scallops with a citrus dressing
• Pan-fried salmon with a creamy dill sauce

The wine’s ripe fruit flavours complement the sweetness of the seafood, while its smooth mouthfeel adds depth to the pairing.

Spicy and Creamy Cheeses

Cheese can also be a delightful pairing for Viognier, particularly cheeses that are either creamy or spicy. Some options to consider include:

• Brie or Camembert for a creamy, soft texture
• Munster or Époisses for stronger, more pungent flavours
• Spicy cheeses, such as those with chili or pepper infusions

The fruit and floral qualities of Viognier enhance the creamy and spicy notes of these cheeses, making for a luxurious pairing.

Vegetarian Dishes

Vegetarian dishes, particularly those featuring root vegetables or creamy sauces, work well with Viognier. The wine’s rich texture and fruit-forward flavours pair well with:

• Butternut squash risotto
• Sweet potato curry
• Roasted vegetable tart

The wine’s versatility makes it a great match for both spicy and creamy vegetarian dishes.

So, What Is Viognier Good With? 

This aromatic and versatile wine pairs exceptionally well with a range of bold, flavourful dishes. From spicy Asian cuisine and creamy pastas to roasted meats and seafood, Viognier’s rich fruit and floral characteristics make it an excellent choice for meals with intense flavours. Whether you're enjoying a spicy curry or a luxurious seafood dish, Viognier’s full body and aromatic complexity will elevate your dining experience.

Next time you're planning a meal, consider pairing it with a bottle of Viognier to enhance both the flavours of your dish and the enjoyment of your wine.