Rutherglen Estates, Rutherglen (Victoria, Australia) “The Alliance” 2005

($14, The Australian Premium Wine Collection): Here is my vote for the best Rhône-style white wine produced outside of France. And it will give most Rhone Valley white wines a run for their money. Rutherglen’s Alliance, a marvelous blend of Marsanne and Viognier, has the hint of apricots often found in Rhone whites, but with a lightness that is often lacking in those wines. A subtle floral nuance imparted by Viognier and great acidity keeps you coming back for more. 92 Michael Apstein Oct 17, 2006