Alban Vineyards Viognier 2012

he 2012 Viognier Central Coast jumps from the glass with exotic apricot, peach and white flower notes. There is lovely immediacy in the fruit in this up-front, juicy wine. The Central Coast Viognier, an entry-level bottling, is made from 2/3rds estate fruit and 1/3rd Santa Barbara fruit, all done in tank. Drinking window: 2013 - 2016. John Alban's 2009s are just as beautiful from bottle as they were in barrel. Overall, the wines are relatively open, succulent and accessible, although the most structured wines in this range will clearly benefit from further time in bottle. Alban fans will also want to check out the Forsythe The Mason (Mourvedre) as well as two new wines being made under the North label, all listed separately in this issue.

Viognier pairs well with Indian or Moroccan cuisines, as well as richer fish and white meats. It is also an excellent complement to shellfish.