Terry Dolle isn’t your average winemaker. An incredibly nice bloke (Julie, his wife and the kids are also lovely and welcoming), he was a grape grower first that decided to start making the stuff himself in 2001 without too much formal training (he’s even got a great home made apple crusher for his cider). Thoroughly convinced of Viognier’s potential in the Orange region, it’s become a staple in the line up, either straight, as a dessert wine or in this case: a co-ferment with Shiraz.

Orange Mountain ‘1397’ Shiraz Viognier, Orange, 2012

1397 is the height of Mount Canobolas, on which Orange Mountain Wines are located (sitting at 900 metres). Complex, heady and perfumed, plenty of fresh rosemary and cherry. The palate has just the right amount of savoury meaty tones and raspberry licorice. Fresh earth, a touch of ash, roast chicken (and all the trimmings), nutty spice, some pronounced acidity and lovely sandy  tannins adn. The viognier provides a big cushion and lifts the shiraz further. Really just starting to slide into its skin. Its tasty, elegant skin. One to put away.

RRP: $42

Alc: 13.5%

Wine sample courtesy of Orange Mountain Wines and Define Wine