WTN: Quick impression of two Chilean Viogniers

[Sue Courtney]

Cono Sur Viognier 2005 - Colchagua Valley, Chile
Light gold in colour, this is fragrant and spicy on the nose and a little oily in the palate with tropical fruit, good acidity and a rich finish. Aged in stainless steel, 50% of which had oak staves inserted, it is not quite bone dry and has 14.5% alcohol by volume. ***½ NZ$14.95 (approx. US$9).

Con Sur Vision Viognier 2003 - Colchagua Valley, Chile
A full-bodied, light golden coloured wine with subtle oak, hints of apricot, vanilla and a delicate nutty apricot finish with good length. Aged in French oak for 7 months, it is almost bone dry and carries 14% alcohol by volume. ***½ NZ$24.95 (approx. US$15.20)

Cono Sur is one of the up and coming producers in Chile with some delicious wines - including an outstanding 20 Barrels Pinot Noir 2004. I thought the Viogniers okay - nice wines but not outstanding - good bronze medal standard or 3.5 stars out of 5. Tasted at a stand-up Chilean wine tasting on 20 June 2006.