Style Heavy red New World Country Australia Price $10
Vintage tasted 2008 Grapes Shiraz, Viognier
Website www.yalumba.com

Overview Yalumba is borrowing from the northern Rhône with this Shiraz- Viognier mix. Producers there have long been permitted to tame Syrah (a powerful, bold red grape) with Viognier (a flowery, aromatic white). Unlike many other blends, these wines are made by mixing the two grape varieties before fermentation, rather than after. Proponents say this preserves a brighter color and adds aromatic properties.

Nose Strong vegetal aromas mix with black fruit and molasses.

Mouth It’s spicy, with rough tannins, some acid, and a burst of fruit. One blind taster called it a “good country wine.”