While the origins of the grape variety Viognier (pronounced vee-ohn-yay) are unknown, it has enjoyed a noble history as one of the great white grape varieties, grown along the west bank of the Rhône River. In the appellations of Château Grillet and Condrieu, it is the only grape variety permitted. In these regions, Viognier is used to create wines of great fruit intensity and complexity.

The vines are trained vertically on stakes along the steep slopes, adjacent to the Rhône, in order to maximize sunlight exposure and enhance ripening. When fully ripe, Viognier exhibits intensely floral apricot and melon aromas. The palate should be rich and full, with careful attention paid to balancing sweetness, alcohol and oak. In the Rhône appellation of Côte-Rôtie, Viognier is co-fermented (a legal limit of 20%) with Shiraz (or Syrah as it is known in France). This co-fermentation has the effect of softening the Shiraz tannins, enhancing colour stability, and giving the wine a great floral 'lift.'

Our Single Vineyard Range was created to highlight the qualities of individual vineyard sites. The fruit for this wine was sources from a mature vineyard ideally positioned on the slopes of Camp Road, Lovedale. The 2009 Viognier has a powerful aroma, featuring vibrant apricot, orange rind and spicy French Oak. The palate is rich and full, with bold fruit intensity.

Our Single Vineyard Viognier should make a starring appearance at our Cork Club dinner in November. In the meantime, members are invited to purchase the wine from the Cellar Door for $255 a dozen.

AWARDS:

• SILVER Medal 2009 Hunter Valley Wine Show
• BRONZE Medal 2009 NSW Wine Awards

Alcohol: 14%
pH: 3.35
TA: 7.1 g/L

Bottle price: $25.00 RRP