Wine of the Week: Yalumba Shiraz-Viognier Barossa

Yalumba Winery holds a sentimental place in the hearts of Australian wine lovers, as it is the oldest family-run winery in Australia. Yalumba was founded in 1849 by Samuel Smith, a British immigrant and brewer. He brought his family to Angaston in the pursuit of a new life. After purchasing a 30-acre parcel of land just beyond the southern-eastern boundary of Angaston, Smith and his son, Sidney, began planting the first vines by moonlight.

Yalumba, which is aboriginal for the land all around, has a rich history of producing very well-composed wines at numerous price thresholds. To make a comparison, Yalumba is to Australia, as E. Guigal is to the Rhone (France). From top to bottom, they offer tremendous wines from all over the region.

My favorite line of their wines has been their Hand Picked line. Lately, I have been drawn to their Barossa line as well. This region offers terrific growing conditions for Shiraz, allowing it to develop numerous layers of flavor and vibrancy.

2006, Yalumba, Shiraz-Viognier, Barossa, Australia - $16

The 2006 shows a beautifully pure purple hue. The nose is of vibrant red berries with a hint of pepper. The palate is very pleasant, with strawberry and blueberry the most evident. The tannins are very soft and there is a slightly perceptibly amount of heat prior to the medium length finish.

Overall this wine is very good and with its nice balance, it will accompany a meal of pork or chicken perfectly. I am rating this 90 and Wine Spectator gave it a 91. It should age well for five or so years, but I like its freshness and would drink it now.

This wine is available at the NH Liquor store off of Exit 6 (behind the Nashua Mall).

Wine of the Week: Yalumba Shiraz-Viognier Barossa