Viognier is a varietal celebrated for its lush aromatics and distinctive texture. Known for notes of stone fruit, florals, and spice, the grape demands precision in the vineyard and restraint in the cellar to preserve freshness while allowing its naturally generous character to shine. The most compelling examples balance aromatic intensity with lift, delivering richness without heaviness. This year’s Best Viognier honors a wine that captures that balance beautifully.

Jefferson Vineyards is one of Virginia’s most historic wineries, located just outside Charlottesville on land once owned by Thomas Jefferson, a pioneering advocate for American winegrowing. With decades of experience cultivating European varietals in Virginia’s challenging climate, the winery has become a standard-bearer for the region’s white wines, particularly Viognier. The 2023 Viognier reflects Jefferson Vineyards’ mastery of the grape, showcasing Virginia’s ability to produce expressive, balanced Viognier that highlights aromatics, freshness, and texture in equal measure.

Jefferson Vineyards’ 2023 Viognier is a refined expression of the varietal, blending floral aromatics and ripe stone fruit with a poised, elegant palate. The wine’s balance and clarity speak to both thoughtful viticulture and the growing sophistication of Virginia wine, earning it Best Viognier honors in this year’s competition.

Jefferson Vineyards’ 2023 Viognier exemplifies the promise and potential of Virginia wine. Congratulations to Jefferson Vineyards on earning Best Viognier at the 2025 San Francisco International Wine Competition, a recognition that underscores the varietal’s expressive power and the region’s continued rise on the world wine stage.