Hobbs Viognier 2004

Winery: Hobbs

Varietal: Viognier

The green skinned grapes of the Viognier varietal are a true French classic, and are the only grape varietal allowed to be used in certain fine wines produced in the Rhone region. Their highly aromatic qualities are prized by wineries and wine drinkers alike, and are widely admired for their extremely floral nose which gives an impression of sweetness, despite these wines almost always being very dry. The precise origins of the Viognier grape are lost in time, but today they can still be found growing in many regions of France, as well as in several countries of the New World. Their floral aromas and fruit-forward flavors make them a favorite for those seeking an elegant wine, and despite the grapes being notoriously difficult to grow, vintners persevere with them, as they know the results are rarely less than spectacular.

Region: Barossa

Located near the city of Adelaide, the Barossa Valley is one of Australia's principle wine producing regions, benefiting as it does from the cool climate which typifies the sloping valley sides and the excellent soil that is found there. Founded by German settlers in the late 19th century, Barossa Valley has long since been associated with the high quality Shiraz varietal grapes which are grown there, and have since become the flagship grape varietal for the best of Australia's produce, celebrated widely for their intensity of flavor and dark, complex character. However, recent years have seen the innovative wineries which cover this region experiment with plenty of other grape varietals, and plenty of success has been found with Grenache, Chardonnay and Semillon, amongst several others.

Country: Australia

Whilst every Australian state has some level of wine production, it is in South Australia and on the island of Tasmania where the finest wines are made to the highest quantities. Here, the scorching Australian sun is a little tamer, and the heat is tempered by brisk oceanic winds, making the climate of these regions ideal for vineyard cultivation. The Tamar Valley on Tasmania has been making waves internationally in recent years, as both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grape varietals are thriving there and resulting in hugely flavorful wines, which are at once distinctly Australian, yet remain unique and interesting enough to surprise and impress. Elsewhere in the country, the Syrah grape (known locally as Shiraz) reigns supreme, as the long, hot summers allow these grapes to ripen fully and lend their intensely fruit-forward character to the ruby red Australian wines, which have such international appeal.