LakeCounty

White Rhone grape varieties just pair perfectly with summer. They tend to produce wines that are lively, floral, and bright, which makes them lovely to drink during the warmest months of the year. Out in California, one region that produces some wonderful Rhone whites, but seems to fall under people’s radar, is Lake County. Our tasting panel discovered some top-notch offerings from the area, so whether you’re a fan of Viognier, Roussanne, or Grenache Blanc, we’ve got you covered.

VieRous

Vie Winery 2011 Roussanne

Grape(s): 100% Roussanne

Region: Lake County

Price: 25-30

Tasting Notes:

A bouquet of apricot, peach, and honeysuckle rises up from a glass. The palate reveals flavors of apricot and mango accented by notes of honey and springtime flowers. A rich, fairly round white with a welcoming acidity, it will pair nicely with swordfish or roast turkey. 175 cases were made.

Rating: 90

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Fore Family Vineyards 2013 Grenache Blanc

Grape(s): 100 % Grenache Blanc

Region: Lake County

Price: 25-30

Tasting Notes:

Aromatics of peaches, pears, and apples combine with a hint of honey on the nose. White peach, melon, ripe pear flavors interweave with suggestions of honey and limestone on the palate. Opulent and nicely layered, it’s a fine example of a California Grenache Blanc. 170 cases produced.

Rating: 90

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Sol Rouge 2011 Viognier

Grape(s): 100% Viognier

Region: Lake County

Price: 30-35

Tasting Notes:

The nose offers aromas of peach and tropical fruit with accents of honeysuckle. Notes of peach, apricot, and mango mingle with floral and honeyed suggestions on the palate. A rich, mouth-filling Viognier, fans of lush, round whites will enjoy this bottle. 100 cases were made.

Rating: 90

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Brassfield 2013 Viognier

Grape(s): 100% ,

Region: Lake County

Price: 20-25

Tasting Notes:

Fragrances of tropical fruit and springtime flowers greets the senses. Flavors of mango, guava, and tangerine mingle with floral and mineral suggestions of the palate. A fairly lively Viognier with a bright acidity, it will pair nicely with many Thai dishes. Just 95 cases produced.

Rating: 88