Queen Bee Viognier 2024

Queen Bee is an elegant Viognier crafted by the talented winemaker Leon Esterhuizen at the renowned Journey's End estate (aka The Drinks Business 2022 Ethical Company of the Year). In fact, Queen Bee showcases just how well the Viognier grape thrives in South Africa.

After tasting the 2020 release, Decanter’s Fiona Beckett marveled at its “seductive peaches-and-cream character,” noting that it’s “a great wine to give someone who’s never tasted Viognier before.” And the 2024 edition is every bit as delectable.

If you haven’t encountered one before, Viognier makes some of the world’s most opulent whites. And to think: a little over 20 years ago (after being torn up in favor of more ‘fashionable’ varieties), it was down to just a few acres of vineyards in its original home, Condrieu, located in France’s northern Rhône Valley. Happily, aromatic Viognier is enjoying a resurgence, as winemakers and wine lovers everywhere embrace its exhilarating flavors and aromas.

With its full body, heady fruit flavors and bright floral aromas, Viognier is perhaps one of the most satisfying whites to sip solo. But we also like it with equally flavorful foods. Grilled or roasted chicken is a classic match, as are weighty seafood dishes like lobster or seared scallops. Viognier can also stand up to a little heat, so don’t be afraid to pair it with spicy noodle bowls or Latin-inspired cuisine.

As you may have guessed by looking at the label, this fabulous white is a love letter to the Cape Honey Bee, which is only found in the Western and Southern Capes of South Africa. It's an essential 'helper' to viticulturists and winemakers because by pollenating the vineyards' flowers, the bees help support biodiversity, which leads to healthier soil and better-quality grapes.

GOOD TO KNOW: This wine qualifies for multiple case pricing (a case = 12 btls). The more cases you buy, the less you’ll pay per bottle—and the more you’ll save! Price updates in shopping cart.