Spice Route Winery, Coastal Region (South Africa) Viognier 2008

($23, Vineyard Brands): The team at Spice Route got it right with this Viognier, a grape that can be difficult to transform into a balanced wine.  Floral notes reminiscent of honeysuckle grab your attention.  On the palate, its fleshy texture and hints of peaches are balanced by solid acidity.  It would make a pleasing before dinner drink that will then work well with flavor-filled first course. 86 Michael Apstein Jul 28, 2009