There are two terrific Viognier from Smith. Looking at the 2019 Viognier Powerline Vineyard, this rich, powerful effort comes close to rivaling a Condrieu with its beautiful perfume of honeyed citrus, lemon, white flowers, crushed stone, and toasty aromas and flavors. Rich, medium to full-bodied, and incredibly textured, it packs serious richness while staying lively and fresh, which is no easy feat. Count me impressed. It's gorgeous today, and while it remains to be seen how this evolves, it should shine for at least 2-3 years, and I see no need to hold off either. It's one of the finest expressions of Viognier I've tasted outside of France.

The Powerline vineyard was planted in 2012 (first vintage 2014) on the estate property on Powerline Road in Walla Walla, at roughly 450 feet in elevation. Growing season is later at this site. The 2019 Viognier Powerline was barrel- fermented and given 15% new French oak barrel-aging, and also underwent 100% malolactic fermentation before bottling. The nose is very high-toned and pretty, o!ering honey, lychee and shades of star jasmine. The palate is plush and soft, delivering plenty of focus and salty undertones. Complex and delicious, this outstanding bottling has another 8-10 years to go.