Brokenwood ILR Reserve Semillon 2014

It is always a joy to spend some time with winelovers from offshore and then offer them an aged Hunter Semillon. Semillon? Most of them look at you like you’ve offered them curdled milk. Once they taste it, however, a different story. They suddenly understand what all the fuss is about. And if I had to pick a current Semillon to show off just how glorious these wines can be, I can’t think of a better example than this one. I understand it is from the Trevena Vineyard. 

It is finally showing the merest hint of development. There are notes of stonefruit, citrus, crème brulee, honeycomb. It is pristine, rich and concentrated. The finish just continues to build and build. Richness sneaks in almost unobtrusively and then expands. Backed by bracing acidity, though it never intrudes. Toasty notes. Such a supple and appealing texture. This really does have years to go. An absolute stunner. For me, 97, but I have no doubt that in five or ten years, or even twenty, you’ll be able to add a couple of points. This is compelling evidence as to why Hunter Semillon really must be considered as one of the greatest white wines on the planet. Then compare the price to great White Burgundy and you’ll see what a ridiculous bargain they are.