For some, classic Hunter Semillon is a take it or leave it style. The high acidity and delicate texture of young Semillon can make it a difficult proposition. Arguably, Hunter Semillon of quality needs at least 5 years bottle age to get into stride.
Thankfully, the folks at Meerea Park are good enough to release some of their Epoch Semillon with a decent amount of bottle age. The result is a wine of immense charm. At just 10.5% ABV, it is the antithesis of the stereotypical Australian blockbuster.
Ever so silky, and slightly creamy in texture, one can see why Hunter Semillon was sometimes likened to Chablis. There’s a purity to this wine that makes it very charming, and extremely fruit friendly. Unoaked Hunter Semillon, it’s an Australian classic, what’s more, good quality examples like this cost less than $20 a bottle. In my book that’s an out and out bargain.
2005 EPOCH SEMILLON
Producer: Meerea Park
Variety: Semillon
Vintage: 2005
Region: Hunter Valley, New South Wales
ABV: 10.5%
Closure: Screw cap
Format: 750ml
Retail price: $17.99
Date tasted: 25 February 2012
Tasting Note:
Bright lemon yellow. Fresh nose of lemon curd and grapefruit pith, barest suggestion of toasty maturity. Medium bodied and elegant, this wine is all about texture; caresses the palate beautifully, silky and very fine. Not overly complex, but very good quality, especially at the modest price. Good length of flavour.
Score: 16.5/20
Thankfully, the folks at Meerea Park are good enough to release some of their Epoch Semillon with a decent amount of bottle age. The result is a wine of immense charm. At just 10.5% ABV, it is the antithesis of the stereotypical Australian blockbuster.
Ever so silky, and slightly creamy in texture, one can see why Hunter Semillon was sometimes likened to Chablis. There’s a purity to this wine that makes it very charming, and extremely fruit friendly. Unoaked Hunter Semillon, it’s an Australian classic, what’s more, good quality examples like this cost less than $20 a bottle. In my book that’s an out and out bargain.
Producer: Meerea Park
Variety: Semillon
Vintage: 2005
Region: Hunter Valley, New South Wales
ABV: 10.5%
Closure: Screw cap
Format: 750ml
Retail price: $17.99
Date tasted: 25 February 2012
Tasting Note:
Bright lemon yellow. Fresh nose of lemon curd and grapefruit pith, barest suggestion of toasty maturity. Medium bodied and elegant, this wine is all about texture; caresses the palate beautifully, silky and very fine. Not overly complex, but very good quality, especially at the modest price. Good length of flavour.
Score: 16.5/20
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