Brokenwood Oakey Creek Semillon 2018

As mentioned, this is a strong contender for the ILR Reserve from this vintage. ILR, for those not aware, celebrates the efforts of their long term winemaker/CEO/bandleader, Iain Riggs, who has his name on more things in the Hunter than Russ Hinze managed in Queensland (in fairness, it is other people who keep using his name in this manner). Iain has, theoretically, retired recently but one suspects that he will maintain a close eye on the place. 

This is a stunning young sem. Young, fresh, classic and with bright citrussy acidity. Brilliant balance. Youthful certainly, but with a supple, gorgeous texture. Real intensity. There are oystershell notes here and such length. A scrooge might knock it back a point or two for its youth, or possibly leave room for future increases, which seems the wiser course of action. For me, 95, which leaves room.