d’Arenberg The Hermit Crab Viognier Marsanne 2013

Georgia’s Wine Pick

I’ve been on a bit of a viognier kick lately, And well what can I say, I am still on it. Only this time its not 100% Viognier but with a blend of 26% Marsanne. Bright, enticing, seductive nose of peach, nectarine and pineapple. I was so in the mood for this wine, I really enjoyed it.This wine has an abundance of peach and nectarine, a hint of a nutty flavour and touch of spice, great texture, body, good acidity, good length… just really really good! And the wine is..d’Arenberg The Hermit Crab Viognier Marsanne 2013.

d’Arenberg The Hermit Crab Viognier Marsanne 2013

McLaren Vale, Viognier (74%) Marsanne (26%) $19.95

Why the Hermit crab? The story behind the name.

Many of McLaren Vale’s vineyards are on free-draining soils underlain with limestone, formed by the calcareous remains of the local marine fauna. One such creature was the Hermit Crab, a reclusive little crustacean that inhabits the cast-off shells of others. The Osborn family thought the name appropriate for this, McLaren Vale’s first ever blend of Viognier and Marsanne. “Hermit” is also an abbreviation for the French appellation of Hermitage, where the Marsanne grape variety dominates.