The 2005 Shiraz & Viognier (5%) spent 17 months in French and American hogsheads, 10% new. Purple-colored, it has a reticent bouquet of violets, earth, plum, and blueberry. This leads to a firm, full-bodied wine with layers of fruit, light tannins, and 2-3 years of aging potential. Drink this tasty wine through 2012. This wine is an excellent value.Importer: Negociants USA, Napa, CA; www.yalumba.com; Also tasted: 2005 Shiraz (82)

Yalumba is Australia’s champion of Viognier, and in this case it’s cofermented with Shiraz to make a wonderfully savory, spicy wine that marries raspberry aromas with just a hint of apricot. Tart berry fruit serves as a counterpoint to the soft tannins and creamy texture. Drink now–2010.——J.C.(11/1/2007)—— 88