Yalumba The Virgilius Viognier 2019

Yalumba The Virgilius Viognier, Eden Valley, South Australia, 2019   

Grape: 100% Viognier

The Eden Valley is a cooler, high altitude region on the eastern side of the Barossa in South Australia and Yalumba have been growing Viognier there for more than 35 years.

Handpicked grapes were whole-bunch pressed directly to mature French oak barriques, where they were fermented by ‘wild’ or indigenous yeasts occurring naturally in the vineyard. These wild yeasts play a small and subtly different part in the development of the wine, creating layers of richness, complexity, fine textures and flavours. After fermentation the wine was aged on lees with regular batonnage for ten months to further heighten the palate weight and increase the complexity and flavour generosity

Pale gold with green highlights. The nose has intense aromas of early season just picked apricots, cardamom, white pepper and fresh ginger. Lifted ginger spice is layered on the palate with mineral sourdough like texture and complex apricot and almond savouriness. The trademark Viognier lusciousness of the palate is clearly evident in this wine. It is complex while at the same time showing purity and restraint that will unwind slowly in the glass and take the imbiber on a sensory journey.

Critics' Tasting Notes:

"The 2019 The Virgilius Viognier is generally accepted as being one of the best Viogniers in the country (there are a handful of wines in this group), and it manages a range of briny acidity and chalky phenolics balanced on a fulcrum of sweet summer apricot, white flowers and green apples. Really smart." Drink 2022-2029

93/100 points, Erin Larkin, WINE ADVOCATE, July 2022

"This is an opulent, multifaceted vintage of Virgilius—lemon-hued and wafting saline and floral aromas of honeysuckle, struck match, white peach and lemon oil. The palate is more about texture than flavor: rich and creamy with just enough acidity to keep it fresh. Highly food friendly, it drinks well now and should hold up well until 2028."

91/100 points, WINE ENTHUSIAST, March 2023

At its best with food, The Virgilius complements a wide range of flavours, particularly dishes with spice and rich flavours. Try with beef rendang, pan fried herb mushrooms, or fresh gnocchi with olive oil and shaved truffles.