The 2006 The Last Ditch Viognier was sourced from the cool-climate Adelaide Hills. It was aged for 9 months in older French and American oak without malolactic fermentation. Medium straw-colored, it offers an enticing bouquet of dried herbs, ginger, honeysuckle, and apricot. This is followed by a medium-bodied wine in which tropical and white peach flavors emerge on the palate. Supple-textured and well-balanced, this tasty effort can be enjoyed over the next 1-2 years. D’Arenberg has been owned and operated by the Osborn family since its inception in 1912. The portfolio, with a focus on Rhone varietals, is wide-ranging and value-oriented from top to bottom.Importer: Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 258-9552; www.darenberg.com.au; Also tasted: 2005 The Stump Jump Shiraz (82), 2005 The Custodian Grenache (84), 2005 Sticks and Stones Tempranillo, Grenache, Souzao (84)

A crisp style of Viognier, with a lean structure for the appealing pear and spice flavors. Drink now. 150 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / McLaren Vale-Adelaide Hills Select to Add