2024 Head Wines The Contrarian Viognier, Barossa Valley

Head Wines The Contrarian Viognier from the Barossa Valley is a bold yet beautifully restrained take on a variety that’s often known for its opulence. True to its name, this Viognier goes against the grain, showing freshness, lift, and precision rather than overt richness. It’s a barrel-fermented, textural white that captures the aromatic beauty of Viognier while keeping things balanced and modern.

Crafted by Alex Head, who’s best known for his Rhône-inspired reds and thoughtful, site-driven approach, The Contrarian Viognier is sourced from cooler sites in the Eden Valley. The elevation and ancient soils here allow for slow ripening, preserving natural acidity and enhancing aromatics, key to keeping Viognier bright rather than flabby.

The wine is fermented with wild yeasts and matured in seasoned French oak on full lees, with bâtonnage for added texture and mouthfeel. It’s made with a light touch, no heavy oak, no overpowering perfume, just layers of stone fruit, spice, and savoury nuance.

In the glass, it opens with aromas of apricot, white peach, ginger, and orange blossom, wrapped in subtle nutty and flinty notes. The palate is fleshy but controlled, with a creamy texture balanced by citrus-laced acidity and a clean, mineral-driven finish.

This is a Viognier that wears its complexity lightly. Perfect with spiced poultry, grilled scallops, or Moroccan-style vegetable tagine.