Naked Wines Franc Dušak Viognier Review

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Franc Dušak Viognier: What I think

Viognier, one of the primary white wine varieties of the Rhône Valley in France, has a bit of a polarizing reputation. I’ve heard people say “I’ve never understood what the fuss is,” to which I respond, “then you’ve never had a good Viognier.”

I like my Viognier richly flavored, full-bodied, viscous, floral, and honeyed. Most of the Viognier I drink comes from Paso Robles or Ballard Canyon in Santa Barbara County. Sometimes it has bitter notes and sometimes it’s pure magic. Either way, Viognier makes you think about the wine a little, encouraging you to contemplate what makes a great wine.

Or at least it should. This one could best be described as Viognier-light. It was light in color and body compared to a typical sample, especially from California. For me, it’s a perfect example demonstrating the difference between high-quality fruit and lesser-quality fruit. A top-notch California Viognier retails from $25-45, but this one was just $16.

I don’t think this was cheap fruit, I think it was probably purchased at a discount from a top tier producer in an off year. My bet is on Kamen Estate as they’re the only other producer who bottles one from this tiny AVA more than 2000 feet above sea level. Kamen primarily uses their Viognier to blend in small amounts with their Syrah (as is the Australian tradition) and they seem to only make a single-variety bottling in years where the crop is excellent (which is a common practice).

Regardless of how I think this wine compares with other Viognier wines that ring my bell, I think this one might be a gentler introduction to the variety for cautious wine drinkers looking to branch out. The 100% money-back guarantee offered at Nakedwines.com makes it a no-brainer to try — 93% of 164 Nakedwines.com members would buy it again.

Last updated: March 24, 2023