The white grape variety originates from France. Synonyms are Galopine, Petit Viognier, Viogné, Viogner, Viognier Bijeli, Viognier Blanc, Viognier Jaune, Viognier Vert, Vionjer, Vionnier Vionnier Jaune, Vionnier Petit, Vionnier Vert.
According to one hypothesis, it is said to have travelled from Dalmatia to France under Emperor Probus (232-282), but there is no historical or genetic evidence for this. The variety was first mentioned in the Rhône in 1781. After the phylloxera catastrophe, many vineyards planted with it were abandoned towards the end of the 19th century.
The parentage is unknown (ex VIVC catalogue). According to DNA analyses carried out in 2008, there is a parent-offspring relationship with the Mondeuse Blanche variety, as well as a close relationship with the Italian variety Freisa (ex Wine Grapes). It should not be confused with the varieties Altesse, Chouchillon (Faux Viognier) or Vugava due to some of the same synonyms or morphological similarities.
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Dr. Christa Hanten
Fachjournalistin, Lektorin und Verkosterin, Wien