28 August 2005

2002 Hayman & Hill Shiraz-Viognier

I've heard good things about the Shiraz-Viognier blends out of Australia, but I don't think I've had one before. A local shop just got in a few cases of the 2002 Hayman & Hill Shiraz-Viognier from Monterey County, California. It's 93% Shiraz and 7% Viognier. I couldn't find a separate website for this wine, but it appears to be made at Blackstone by two of the vintners.

This is definitely a fruit bomb. Raspberry dominates, with maybe a bit of cherry or blackberry in the background. Low tannins, so it's a good summertime sipper. The viognier I think softens the edge while providing just a little herbal complexity. Retails for around $14, but I got it for $11. I served it with a rich chuck roast/cream sauce casserole.

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