The nose is generous and expressive with apricot, peach and pear in abundance. Further inspection uncovers more subtle characters of honeysuckle and orange blossom. The palate is full bodied, tight and lively, striking a good balance of weight and acidity. Luscious stone fruit, citrus and melon make way for ginger and spice with the Marsanne component adding a touch of pine nut complexity. Soft powdery tannins provide for a long finish with aromatic spice characters lingering.

Tasting notes

The Hermit Crab McLaren Vale Marsanne Viognier has a green, brilliant mid-straw colour and exhibits fresh and tropical fruit with a strong emphasis on stone fruits, pineapple, mango and honeysuckle. The youthful palate is immediately luscious with those tropical fruit, honeysuckle and stone fruit flavours balanced by fresh grapefruit and light butter tastes, before a long persistent fruit finish. The wine shows vibrant freshness with enjoyable hints of hazelnut and slight mineral boney-ness, characteristic of Marsanne. Given time to prove its longevity and most importantly not served over chilled, The Hermit Crab Marsanne Viognier we believe should develop intense, complex nuttiness with emphasis on cashews, as well as butterscotch characters.

Rating

Light, bright gold. Pungent aromas of tangerine, poached pear and floral honey over a subtle underpinning of minerals. Supple, gently sweet orchard fruit and melon flavors are firmed by a citrus zest quality and pick up an exotic floral note on the back end. This juicy, fruit-driven wine will work well with spicy foods. Steve Tanzer 89 points (Jul 2009)