Semsational Hunter Valley Semillon
It could be that the critters and molluscs that littered the ancient sea floor more than 250 million years ago can be credited for some of the spectacular soils which now adorn the golden circle of Semillon producing vineyards, arguably the best sites in the world.
Hunter Valley Semillon is perhaps as unique as this theory. Often described as the “greatest gift to the world of wine” or “the world’s most uniquely regional wine styles” even “Australia’s unsung hero”. But against all odds it seems that its Semillon that has put the Hunter Valley on the world wine map.
The impact of great Hunter Valley Semillon wines on the reputation of Australian wine is unquestionable. Not only is it unique and the ultimate in regional expression, it’s the site-specific characteristics that Hunter Valley Semillon reflects that have inspired so many. Consistently producing wines of the highest quality, quintessentially Australian, and so so celebrated.
With origins dating back to 1736 in Bordeaux in South Western France, Semillon is a variety which in its prime is likely to have been the most planted variety in the world. Sites were prolific in South Africa, Chile, France and Australia but it’s more specifically the Lower Hunter Valley in Australia that these sites have become sacred.
While France’s pre-eminent white variety produces celebrated dessert wine styles commanding some of the world’s top prices, it’s without comparison to the purity of styles produced in the Hunter Valley. Semillon has become synonymous with the Hunter Valley and vice versa.
Australia’s unsung hero is as underrated as it is unique. The pristine unoaked incarnation of the varietal has the ability to transform in the bottle from a lean crisp, fine, minerally, citrus flavoured youngster into a fine, rich, toasty, honeyed teenager with gorgeous grilled nutty flavours at its core. Taking on an almost oak like maturity over time, it’s a style that has set it apart from other great wines of the world.
Its natural acidity, wonderful texture, its vigour and resistance to humidity and disease have all proven that there is no better match for Semillon or the Hunter Valley.
