The white wines begin with the 2006 Sauvignon Estate Grown. It is medium straw-colored with a nose of fresh herbs, melon, and citrus. This leads to a medium-bodied, Sancerre-like wine with a smooth texture, lively acidity and good depth. The finish is moderately long and fruity. Drink it over the next 1-2 years. De Bortoli owns estate vineyards in Riverina, Hunter Valley, and Yarra Valley and produces several tiers of dry table wines in addition to their sweet and fortified dessert wines.Importer: De Bortoli Wines, North America; www.debortoli.com.auAlso tasted: 2007 Sauvignon Blanc- Semillon Windy Peak (75), 2007 Viognier Windy Peak (80), 2006 Pinot Noir Vat 10 (78), 2007 Pinot Noir Windy Peak (72), 2006 Pinot Noir Estate Grown (82?), 2006 Shiraz, McLaren Vale

Fairly ripe, with fig and melon flavors tinged with smoky notes. Fermentation in used wood has imparted textural richness to the palate, while allowing the grapefruit character to shine through on the finish.——J.C.(3/1/2008)—— 88