Paso Robles, Calif., product Brian Denner left his parents’ winery in the summer of 2014 to move to Southern Oregon and take over the winemaking at DANCIN, but he also handled this Viognier for the Moore family of Quail Run Vineyards and South Stage Cellars. His Denner 2008 Syrah finished No. 11 on Wine Spectator’s top 100 in 2011, and his ability with Viognier from Crater View and Lakeside vineyards shines. The nose of lemon, papaya and white pepper may remind some of Condrieu, and there are hints of pear with hazelnut, too. On the palate, it opens with orange Creamsicle flavors and texture, joined by honeydew melon and papaya. Hints of pink grapefruit offer more acidity than usual with this variety, finishing with minerality. The Moores suggest serving this with aged Gouda and triple cream cheese, roasted root vegetables and protein such as duck, turkey, lobster or scallops.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 227 cases
Alcohol: 14.1%
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