It’s funny how fashions change in wine. Not that long ago every man and his dog in Australia was having a go at adding Viognier to their Shiraz. Nowadays it’s not so desirable…well unless you’re Clonakilla. There’s been a steady decline in the percentage of the white grape incorporated in Wirra Wirra’s Catapult since the 2008 release – which contained 5% Viognier and was the last vintage to carry the Shiraz Viognier moniker on its label. I think by and large this is a positive development in warmer areas such as McLaren Vale. Which isn’t to say there aren’t exceptions. The 2012 Catapult incorporates just 1% Viognier, its influence subtle and centring on texture, bouquet and perhaps colour.
Black and blue fruits, sweet spice, pepper, and a streak of raspberry with a hint of pressed flowers. A little grilled beef complexity. Melting milk chocolate texture with layered tannin, equal parts grainy and supple. It doesn’t have a great deal of length but it has enough. The acidity is brighter, no doubt due to the cooler year, but I think that dash of Viognier helps smooth it out. 89
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $24
Tasted: August 2013