Drier and more streamlined than many Viogniers out there, with a crisp spine of minerals that undergirds the variety’s traditional exotic flavors. Beneath the chalk you’ll find savory tastes of apricot jam, blood oranges, mint and vanilla.——S.H.(7/1/2009)—— 88

The big, fruit bomb 2000 Viognier regular bottling, adds a touch of CO2 for charm. The wine needs be consumed over the next year.Tel. (800) 313-WINE

There’s a lot of sulfur upon opening and it takes a lot of airing to blow off. Once it does, the wine reveals peach and smoky-spicy aromas and flavors and a clean, zesty spiciness. A little bit of sugar adds a honeyed richness. —S.H.——S.H.(4/1/2002)—— 85