Brokenwood 1899 Old Vines Vineyard Semillon 2022

This is not strictly the typical Brokenwood single vineyard Sem, being the very first ever release of this wine. The vineyard, 1.17 hectares, is opposite their well-known Oakey Creek Vineyard, one of their very best (still early days but the rumour is that the Oakey Creek Vineyard Semillon will be the ILR for 2018). As always, no oak, no malo, and 11.5% alcohol. The colour is near trout stream clear, but there is a hint of shimmering gold. The nose is tight, taut and restrained. Still very young, this is a refined and delicate style. We have notes of citrus, especially grapefruit, with river stones. There is some crisp green apple acidity with good focus – this is built for the long haul. The palate opens up revealing more than is evident on the nose at the moment. Some serious length here too, balance and deceptive intensity. One for the future, 15 years plus. Both the wine and score have room to improve.