Be bold! Explore the white wines down the aisle from Chardonnay.

Let's enjoy some great examples of white wines that differ from Chardonnay.

Viognier
This is a fantastic medium to full bodied wine. Its low to medium acidity makes it easy to drink. The Viognier grape (pronounced vee-oh-NYAY) has been produced for a long time in the upper rhône. It has a fine reputation, but is little known due the limited plantings of the grape. In recent years California has been growing more Viognier grapes. This has brought more bottles of this refreshing wine to the market. The apricot/peach flavors are a refreshing alternative to Chardonnay. Viognier is a natural match with pork or Mediterranean dishes. You can serve it any time you would serve Chardonnay.

The French Viognier tends to be more economical. Try a familiar name in Beaujolais, Georges Duboeuf. This is a flavorful wine with white peaches and pear tones. Expect to pay about $10.

For a few dollars more you can try the EXP Viognier from R.H. Philips. For $12 you will get a wine aged for about six months, only half that time in oak. You will find the classic peach flavors with aromas of honeysuckle and jasmine. It's a fine crisp wine.

Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio
This close relation to Pinot Blanc, and a mutation of Pinot Noir, is available in many styles. Pinot Grigio (the Italian version) has become popular. It is a refreshing and tasty wine. Pinot Grigio can be sweet or dry. Many of the inexpensive Pinot Grigios sold here in the States are more sweet. When done well you will find full flavors such as rich peach and pear, and an exciting spicy quality and acidity in the mouth.

The Alsatian soil of France brings out some of the best qualities in Pinot Gris. It can also be too much of a good thing.

Oregon has done quite well with Pinot Gris. The cool climate suits this grape, bringing out a stronger flavor. Will find the signature pine and orange aromas of Pinot Grigio. They are more expensive than the imported Italian version.

It's easy to match Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio to food. Chicken and pasta dishes, salads and appetizers pair nicely.

Zonin is just beginning to make an impact on the American market. It was of my favorite wineries when I lived in Italy. The Pinot Grigio is one of the reasons. It is gorgeous pale straw color with tints of green. The aromas of almonds and peaches are great sensory experiences. This is a dry, light wine with a smooth texture.

A fantastic example of the Washington Pinot Gris is the King Estate. It is a winner. Literally. Two years in a row they have "won a gold medal, best-of-class, and was named sweepstakes winner for the white wine category." It has been awarded scores in the 90s by reviewers. It has, "aromas of tropical fruit, tangerine, floral perfume, and magnolia blossom are accented by hints of vanilla and anise in this wine. In the mouth, the wine is rich and round with flavors of citrus, tangerine, peach, anise, and pear. This Pinot Gris maintains a perfect balance of fruit and acidity throughout its soft, lingering finish." Expect to pay about $15.

Have read about The Other White Wines?