2010 VASSE FELIX SEMILLON - ALWAYS THE BRIDESMAID.......

Semillon, always the bridesmaid, never the bride. Why is it that Semillon struggles to get its voice heard among the throng of Chardonnays, Rieslings and horde of Johnny-come-lately Pinot Gris/Grigio? Of all truly, distinctive Australian wines, few get the pulses of international wine aficionados racing more than mature examples of quality Hunter Valley Semillon. Yet here in Australia, Semillon still seems to be taken for granted.

Of course, the Hunter Valley is not the only source of quality Semillon, though Hunter Semillon possesses a delicate weight married with light alcohol that is unique in the wine world. There are quality examples of Semillon from the Barossa (Rockford, Peter Lehmann) and Clare Valleys (Mount Horrocks), as well as Margaret River (Moss Wood).

This particular example, from leading Margaret River producer Vasse Felix, emphasises the grassy/herbaceous side of Semillon. At this early stage in its life, the wine is carried by crisp acidity, and drinks rather like a Sauvignon Blanc. For this taster, it is on the young side and will benefit from several years in bottle during which time it will fill out and develop further complexity. This is a good Margaret River Semillon, though not quite in the league of Moss Wood’s regional benchmark, that represents good value for money and is a medium term cellaring proposition.

2010 SEMILLON
Producer: Vasse Felix
Variety: Semillon
Vintage: 2010
Region: Margaret River, Western Australia
ABV: 13%
Closure: Screw cap
Retail Price: $23.00
Date tasted: 8 January 2013

Tasting Note:
Pale silvery green. Herbaceous nose, cut grass, touch of grapefruit zest, subtle background oak. Dry, medium bodied, savoury, quite-Sauvignon like, grassy, nettles. Medium finish with crisp acidity. Improved alongside food. Will benefit from further bottle age.
Score: 15.5+/20