2009 Glenguin Old Broke Block Semillon
Hunter Valley, New South Wales
As the weather starts to warm our palates again, we start to reach more for refreshment from the fridge than the cellar. For the lighter, more delicately flavoured foods or simply enjoying on a hot day, there is Hunter Semillon.
Semillon is a Hunter Valley story that zings with uniqueness. It is picked early to retain its characteristic fresh acid and may never see the inside of a barrel yet, over the course of its long life in the bottle, picks up a delightful toasty character. This particular Semillon has roots that zing all the way back to the beginning. The previous vintage was aptly called ‘Ancestors’; Semillon with the juice coming from descendant vines of the original James Busby Semillon plantings from the 1830’s.
Generously poised on the palate with aromatically tight and nervy lemon, this is a baby yet. The length is refreshingly long. Drink it now to enjoy that zestiness or keep it for five years or so to start to develop some of that famous honeyed toastiness.
For those unfamiliar with this style of Semillon, grab some great company and indulge in a feast of oysters, scallops or whatever your favourite shellfish might be.
Glenguin do not just produce Semillon, but also a Tannat that you should definitely seek out.
Value: $25.00
Distribution: Widely available
© Lisa Johnston August 2011
Wine Diva Wines of the Month, September 2011
