2008 Yalumba The Virgilius Viognier

Viognier is a biologically unstable grape variety and for a time was practically extinct with only a tiny amount grown in the Northern Rhone. However, since more stable clones have been propagated Viognier has become the “Holy Grail” for many white wine makers. So what’s the big attraction? On its own, the vine in cool climates produces a very aromatic wine with a perfumed nose which is even more exotic than Gewurztraminer. Every time we’ve tasted the famous Chateau Grillet – the nose has been as mysterious as the wine is rare, with a range of aromas that can best be described as super ripe, exotic tropical fruits that are verging ‘on the turn’ or going off. Yalumba have been the Champion of the varietal in Australia, planting 1.2 hectares in the Barossa Valley in 1980.

Bright pale straw colour with green tinge and water like hue. Superb, lifted nose of spice, dried apricot and tropical fruit on the turn. The palate is generous in weight with creamy mouthfeel. There is the perfect juxtaposition between broad ripe fruit flavours and depth of flavour which is evident in the best examples of this variety. Flavours of dried apricots and tropical fruit followed by an exceptionally long spicy background. Soft acid finish. Exceptionally long aftertaste of dried apricot and spice.
Cellar 1-2 years (2010-2011)
Alc/Vol: 13.5%