Indulge in the artistry of The Vice Viognier Barrel Aged Orange Wine Pickle Ball 2023, a unique orange wine crafted with precision. This Viognier wine enchants with lush aromas of apricot, honey, and orange blossom, leading to a rich, textural palate layered with stone fruit, honeycomb, and a delicate hint of spice. Barrel-aged for added complexity, it offers crisp acidity and a long, intricate finish. Perfectly pairing with spicy Asian dishes, Indian curries, or creamy cheeses, this orange wine brings a bold tannic structure and refreshing character that bridges the gap between white and red wines, setting your taste buds on a delightful journey.
Process & Profile
The Vice Viognier Barrel Aged Orange Wine, affectionately dubbed "Pickle Ball," is a standout among orange wines. This wine is crafted using 100% Viognier grapes, fermented on their skins—a process responsible for its golden orange hue and complex texture. Aged for 14 months in neutral French oak barrels, this aging technique imparts subtle flavors and enhances the wine's body. The unfiltered nature of this orange wine preserves its authentic character, making it a fun yet refined offering for wine enthusiasts and adventurous palates alike.
Tasting Notes
This orange wine presents a symphony of aromas and flavors. On the nose, expect enticing notes of apricot, honey, orange blossom, and a hint of anise. The palate is rich and textured, featuring vibrant stone fruit flavors such as peach and apricot, balanced by a touch of honeycomb and spice. Crisp acidity leads to a long, complex finish that evolves beautifully as the wine opens, mirroring the dynamism of the sport it's named after—Pickleball.
What Makes It Special
What sets The Vice "Pickle Ball" Orange Wine apart is its rarity and artisanal quality. With fewer than 500 cases produced, this wine is a limited-edition treasure for collectors and connoisseurs. It offers a distinct representation of the Viognier grape, celebrated for its floral and fruity characteristics, elevated further by barrel aging. The playful branding and connection to Pickleball—a sport enjoying soaring popularity—add a layer of charm and uniqueness to this already exclusive bottle.
How to Enjoy
To fully appreciate the vibrant complexity of this wine, serve it slightly chilled to allow the floral and fruit aromas to shine without overpowering its nuanced flavors. Its crisp acidity and textured profile make it an excellent pairing for a variety of dishes, including:
- Spicy Asian cuisine or Indian curries, which complement its fruity and spicy undertones.
- Creamy cheeses, which provide a delightful contrast to its acidity.
- Grilled fish, roasted vegetables, or charcuterie boards, which bring out its depth of flavor.
Whether you're enjoying it as a standalone treat or pairing it with a meal, this wine celebrates the boldness and charisma of Viognier in every sip. Perfect for wine lovers, pickleball fans, or anyone in search of something refreshingly different, The Vice Viognier Barrel Aged Orange Wine "Pickle Ball" will leave a lasting impression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of The Vice Viognier Barrel Aged Orange Wine Pickle Ball?
This wine offers a rich and textural palate with vibrant flavors of stone fruit, honeycomb, and a subtle hint of spice. It also features aromas of apricot, honey, and orange blossom, with a crisp acidity and a long, complex finish.
How is this wine made?
The wine is crafted in the orange wine style, where Viognier grapes are fermented with their skins, giving it a distinctive color, texture, and flavor. It is then barrel-aged to enhance its complexity.
What foods pair best with this wine?
The Vice Viognier Barrel Aged Orange Wine pairs excellently with spicy Asian dishes, Indian curries, creamy cheeses, and grilled seafood.
How should this wine be served?
For the best flavor, serve it slightly chilled. This enhances its crispness and brings out its lively aromas and nuanced flavors.
Is this wine unfiltered or unfined?
Yes, the wine is 100% unfiltered and unfined, preserving its natural texture and flavors.
What sets this wine apart from other Viogniers?
The unique combination of orange wine production methods and barrel aging gives it a rich, velvety texture and a complex flavor profile, distinct from traditional Viogniers.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
The specific alcohol content can vary slightly by vintage, but it typically falls within the standard range for Viogniers.
Is this wine suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Since the wine is unfiltered and unfined, it is likely to be suitable for vegetarians and vegans. However, it's best to confirm with the producer or retailer for assurance.
What is the best occasion to enjoy this wine?
This versatile wine is perfect for casual gatherings, celebratory dinners, or as a pairing for a home-cooked meal featuring bold or spicy flavors. It also makes an excellent gift for wine enthusiasts.