Montana Viognier Showcase 08

The exotic white Rhone variety Viognier has made a strong impact on the wine world and along with Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre has made the ‘Rhone Ranger’ set very exciting. Viognier requires warmth to perform and Gisborne is proving to be a particularly suitable region for it in New Zealand. Made from fruit from Montana’s Ormond vineyard, 18% was hand-picked, whole cluster pressed and wild yeast fermented and aged in old French oak with lees stirring for 7 months, resulting in a wine at 13.3% alc., and 6.08 g/l rs. Possessing a sensational aromatic bouquet of apricots, florals and orange zest, the palate is surprisingly elegant and fresh, while displaying generous savoury spice and well-ripened stonefruit flavours. As Viogniers should, this has real textural depth and length, enabling the wine to match strong seafood, lighter meat and Asian-influenced dishes.  RC Nov 09

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