This smells of honeysuckle, musk, peach, brown pear and apricot flesh and kernels. It’s generous with plenty of body aided and abetted by lees. Acidity gives life to the palate and makes sure the flavours are delivered without confusion. Hints of orange oil and a few slivers of ginger on the back-palate. A little bit of traction adds interest at the end. A wine that screams to be enjoyed with rich foods.
You have to admire Yalumba’s commitment to making fully varietal Viognier. They’re one of the very few in Australia to pull off the unctuous texture and opulent flavour inherent in the grape without tipping over into the realms of flabbiness and the 2012 delivers up a superb example of just how delightful the variety can be when given the treatment.
James Halliday says: 96 Bright straw-green; the bouquet is extremely complex, with both wood and fruit aromas, the palate with layers of complexity far beyond that obtained by any other Australian producer; exceptional length and great balance to all the components.
Tyson Stelzer says: 95 Is it just me, or is Virgilius becoming more refined, complex and textural with each new vintage? I love the modern expression of this label and 2010 encapsulates its finer points more precisely than ever: a brilliant green tint to a pale straw hue; effortless, low alcohol balance; layers of struck flint and gunpowder complexity; signature viognier apricot, peach and lemon fruit; delightfully mouth-filling texture; all seamlessly interwoven with wild fermentation complexity and breathtaking persistence. Stunning. Best Drinking: 2020
Campbell Mattinson: 94 I'm not a noted fan of viognier but this edition of The Virgilius is very, very good. Such a tight, precise wine. It has power and opulence but the rein is held very tight. Ginger, shell grit, melon, coconut, pips and stones. Terrific length. Composure all over. A tip-top white wine.
Don't Pay: $50.00
WBW Rating: 96/100
Closure: Stelvin
Region: Eden Valley, SA
Winemaker: Louisa Rose
Drink now until: 2022
Alc/Vol: 13.5 %
