The Viognier grape, an attractive and under-appreciated varietal, has gone global and is now well represented from France to South America. And Australia as well, where the 2021 Yalumba Organic Y Series Viognier ($23) does a fine job of balancing the fruity and floral aspects of this versatile white grape. On the palate, the dominant fruit note is apricot, along with peach, pear, and a touch of minerality. Extra dry and medium bodied, this refreshing wine has an appealing mouthfeel and would go very well with seafood, especially shrimp.
Founded over a century ago, Bodega Luigi Bosca is Argentina’s oldest family-owned winery. They are particularly well regarded for their Malbecs, with a case in point being La Linda Old Vines, which uses the fruit from 30-year-old vines to produce a sophisticated, medium-bodied wine whose appealing aromas are followed by notes of ripe blackberries, black cherry, and plum gliding deftly over the palate en route to a long and satisfying finish. Bold and earthy, silky and complex, La Linda is ideal paired with steak. Well priced at $26.50.
With summer coming on hot this year, it’s certainly the right time for a chilled and refreshing glass of rosé. And around this house, one of our favourites has long been Hester Creek’s Rosé Cabernet Franc ($23). Made entirely from Cab Franc grapes, the 2022 vintage boasts a glowing ruby colour, exciting aromatics, and lush flavours of rhubarb, strawberry, cherry, and cranberry. Notwithstanding hints of tartness, this appealing, full-bodied wine is a bit off-dry, with an impressive finish. Try this beauty with charcuterie, smoked salmon, and gourmet olives.
And let’s return to Australia for a tasty rendezvous with a bargain bestseller, Yellow Tail Chardonnay. Fruity and off dry, this easy-drinker is round-textured and generous as it offers fresh flavours of peach, pineapple, mango, and citrus. Nicely balanced and benefitting from a lively acidity and a creamy mouthfeel, this goes well with food but is also easy to recommend for patio sipping. It’s a bargain at $16. (All prices include tax.)
