Montagne Noire Viognier, 2016

ABOUT THE Stand in most any in ’s massive Languedoc-Roussillon region and face north. You’ll see a horizon dominated by the Montagne Noire, or “black mountains.” More than just a pretty view, the range provides a moderating effect that makes Languedoc a world-class wine region. The Viognier are in the cool, Atlantic-influenced foothills, where the ripen slowly—resulting in beloved for their fresh, heady aromas and bright flavors.

DID YOU KNOW? Languedoc’s Vin de Pays d’Oc designation (vin de pays means “country wine”) often indicates a winemaker’s rebellious streak, meaning local antiquated production rules were ignored.

ABOUT THE REGION Southern France’s Languedoc-Roussillon is one of the world’s most productive wine regions, covering more than 1,000 square miles. Its diverse climate and soil types, plus liberal production rules (unlike in Burgundy or Bordeaux), are a beacon for winemakers crafting remarkable—and remarkably priced— wines. Almost every variety thrives here, Pays d’Oc IGP, from Cabernet to . Languedoc-Roussillon, France

AT A GLANCE

Variety: Viognier : Stainless steel (no oak) : 2016 Alcohol: 13% Vineyard: Various Farming: Conventional

To learn more about this wine, visit blueapron.com/wines/216 TASTING NOTES

Montagne Noire Viognier is like a classically styled northern Rhône Viognier on holiday—a little lighter and crisper. It’s the antithesis of fruit-salad-tasting Viogniers from warm-climate Australia and California.

1) Look at the Color

Pale straw

2) Swirl & Smell

Meyer lemon White peach Honeysuckle Flint

3) Taste & Savor

Low High Tannins Drying element TASTING TIP Sweetness Amount of sugar This is crisper and juicier than most Viogniers. Aging the wine Body in stainless steel, not oak, allows Viscosity or weight the wine’s tart, citrus notes and Acidity delicate aromas to shine. Tingling crispness

4) Pair and enjoy!

Match this wine’s symbol to a Blue Apron Meal Intensely flavored, aromatic wines are as delightful to smell as they are to drink. These wines—such as Gewürztraminer, Viognier and some —are naturally tasty with rustic fare from Floral & the places in Europe where the grapes grow, but they’re also a Aromatic surefire hit with spicy, fragrant dishes like Thai green curry.

More classic pairings: Indian food | Sausages & sauerkraut | King crab