d'Arenberg The Hermit Crab Marsanne/Viognier 2003

Vintage 2003 in McLaren Vale produced fragrant, complex wines with great length. This, our second Marsanne Viognier release, shows intense varietal characters, which were gently enhanced by the use of our traditional basketpresses and temperature-controlled fermentation. Upon release, The Hermit Crab is a green, brilliant mid-straw color, and exhibits fresh flower and tropical fruit aromas, with emphasis on, apricot and white peach, as well as pear, pineapple, guava and mango. Added complexity comes from a nutty touch. The youthful palate is immediately fruity, with strong tropical and stone fruit flavors, leading to a very long finish.

This wine will mature into the medium-term, producing a rich, rolling, generous and complex wine, balanced by long, clean, refreshing acidity. Given time to prove its longevity, and most importantly, not served overchilled, The Hermit Crab should show an intense, complex nuttiness, with an emphasis on cashews and butterscotch, while still retaining a fragrant, mineral character.