The 2006 Shiraz (95%)-Viognier (5%) is purple-colored with an already complex nose of cedar, violets, leather, bacon, and blueberry. Made in a racy style with some elegance, this tasty effort has enough structure to evolve for 2-3 years and should drink well from 2010 to 2018. De Bortoli produces a substantial amount of wine (it has four winemaking facilities) but under the leadership of manager/winemaker Stephen Webber this has not been a deterrent to high quality. Eight value wines were reviewed in Issue 178 and merit serious interest. The main winery facility which I visited in September 2008 is located in the cooler climate Yarra Valley where the focus is on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.Importer: De Bortoli Wines USA, Hoboken, NJ; tel. (201) 714-9700

The small amount of Viognier helps to fill out this wine’s mouthfeel, adding weight to the spice-driven flavors of cracked pepper, licorice, coffee and block olive. Finishes long and well structured, with a velvety texture to the tannins. ——J.C.(12/1/2008)—— 90