Whicher Ridge Viognier 2009
Geographe is a pretty underrated region, in my opinion. Geographically, (hehe) it bridges the gap between maritime Margaret River and the inland Blackwood Valley. I’ve tasted good examples of Shiraz, Cabernet, Barbera, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, and now Viognier. I think grapes like Vermentino and Fiano will have a place there too.
At 14.5% alcohol, there’s not much doubt that it’s a Viognier, particularly when the ginger nut and stonefruit aromas hit. The wine carries the burden of alcohol very well indeed – there is no burn or distracting heat. Some minerality is apparent, giving the wine a clean slate on which (hehe) to present itself. A lick of delicate pear flavours join the fray, but it’s mostly an orgy of peach, ginger and apricot, with an ample wash of acidity to clean it all up.
It’s not a showstopper, but it certainly makes me look forward to trying subsequent releases. As far as food goes, take it to a Middle Eastern restaurant and you should be pretty happy.
Very Good.
Closure: Screwcap
Source: Retail
Price: $28
