Spice makes Thanksgiving nice, and opens the door for Syrah.  Spicy, loaded with dark fruit, moderately tannic, and taking well to oak and blending with other grapes, Syrah is a happy pairing for most foods.  Adding in the slightly floral viognier can add a twist, and if anyone knows how to mix the two, than it might be Yalumba.  Hailing from their entry level, does Yalumba Y Series Shiraz Viognier have the bouquet to join the table?

Sight:  Deep inky violet, with a hot magenta edge.

Smell:  Red raspberries, clove, and hints of crushed violet all work together.  Touches of milk chocolate, blueberry syrup, and hints of smoke and cherries.

Sip:  Bold and dark from the word go, it pulls in blackberries, blueberries, cloves, and cinnamon.  The body is full, bright, and a little rough on the edges.    Chocolate covered cherries and hints of tobacco and black tea add complexity.

Savor:  The ending has great tannins, and pulls in blackberries, blueberries, and hints of crushed violets.

Yalumba Y Series Shiraz Viognier is a deep, dark trip through blackberries, violets, and plenty of spice.  The slight floral notes compliment the cloves and dark fruits.  Smooth tannins add nice structure, and the brightness hits at the right moments to make it pop.  With a meal, it’s well set up for juicy meat or barbecue.  Try it with Thanksgiving to let the acidity and the spice compliment the sides on the table.  Yalumba Y Series Shiraz Viognier is very well constructed, and builds multiple layers of flavor.

Verdict:  Blackberries, Blueberries, Violets, Spice
Rating: 88
Price: $10
South Australia

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