2018 Yalumba The Virgilius Viognier, Eden Valley

Pale gold with green highlights. Intense aromas of apricots, cardamom, white pepper and fresh ginger. Lifted ginger spice is layered on the palate with mineral, sourdough-like texture, apricots and almond savouriness. It is complex while at the same time shows purity and restraint that will unwind slowly in the glass and take the imbiber on a sensory journey.

A stellar viognier. A wine that fans of the northern Rhone, such as myself, increasingly hold in great esteem. A complete understanding of the physiological tendencies of the variety is apparent: a salubrious texture. Unafraid of viscosity, weight and phenolics. Then, the aroma! Apricot, orange blossom, cumquat, honeysuckle and crystalline ginger. Long, slippery and yet not out of hand. A gentle chew and impeccable oak management reining it all in across the seams. Very fine.

97 points Ned Goodwin MW winecompanion.com.au