Delicate and kind of ethereal at first, but seems to grow a spine the longer it sits in the glass. Aromas are of talc, vanilla and citrus; the palate feel reprises the dusty-talcy impression. A dry twist of lemon drop on the finish completes a very pretty picture. Imported by Cumulus Wines Inc.
— D.T.
(6/1/2006)
Only contains 1% Viognier, so maybe the impression is subliminal, but there does seem to be a hint of apricot to this wine’s raspberry-blueberry fruit and cracked pepper. It’s medium-bodied, with firm acids but soft tannins on the finish. Drink now and over the next 8 years.
— W.E.
(9/1/2007)
Mostly barrel-fermented in French oak, this is a smoky, nutty Chardonnay that successfully integrates the wood with pear and honey notes. The texture in the mouth is rich and layered, ending long and tinged with roasted nuts. Drink now–2010.
— W.E.
(9/1/2007)
This softly structured, user-friendly Chard boasts prototypical barrel-fermented notes of cashews, buttered toast and grilled peaches, carried along by a full-bodied, lush mouthfeel. Finishes long, with well integrated oak. Drink now.
— J.C.
(2/1/2011)
A bit unyielding on the nose, then the palate shows rather tight and citrusy flavors. Yet there’s ample weight on the palate and a long, fresh finish tinged with hard peaches and pineapple. This seemingly contradictory wine just needs some time to develop; try after 2009.
— J.C.
(3/1/2009)
A ripe style of Sauvignon Blanc, with bold melon and fig flavors that blend in hints of nectarine as well. Not a herbal, grassy style, but one that shows plenty of ripeness and weight yet finishes with some chalky, minerally notes. Drink now.
— W.E.
(9/1/2007)
This shows a bit of Graves-like character, blending tobacco-leaf and smoky-cedary hints with black cherry and cassis fruit. Medium-bodied, this doesn’t have the lushness of many Australian wines from warmer regions, yet isn’t overly hard. Try in 2010. The blend is 43% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Franc, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon.
— W.E.
(9/1/2007)
Former Rosemount winemaker Philip Shaw is the leading champion of the Orange GI, which boasts higher altitudes and cooler night temperatures than many of Australia’s wine regions. As a result, his No. 17 features lightly herbal, minty aromas and flavors of cassis and tobacco, all framed by firm tannins. Try in 2011.
— J.C.
(9/1/2009)