Shiraz Viognier 2011

2011 has been described as a horror vintage for much of Australia, and Canberra was no different (in most regions, the advice was very much to hang on to your money for the brilliant 2012's – they are as special as the '11's are not – but inevitably, there have been plenty of exceptions made in 2011 and it would be very wrong to condemn the entire year en masse). Tim described it as “the most challenging year we have had to deal with, a number of blocks, totalling at least half the usual production, were left unpicked as they were not going to achieve the standard required”. Mildew and botrytis invaded the vineyards. Nets would go on and off, time and again. “Experimental” sprays were required. Almost all of the ferments proceeded without any whole bunches or stems included. The percentage of new oak was a little less than usual – 28%. 5% Viognier. 13.1%.

Only 1,000 dozen made, which is a little less than half of the usual production – a good year will see 2,500 cases. All of the quality fruit went here – no 'Syrah' was made. Given all this, Tim was very happy with the result, describing it, as mentioned, as a “very pretty wine”.

Pretty indeed, with some spice and pepper notes. Plum colour. It lingers nicely and is quite stunning for the vintage. Look hard and there is a fleeting glimpse of stonefruit but put this down to the exuberance of youth and don't expect it still to be there in a year.

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