Mount Horrocks Clare Valley Semillon 2018 Single Bottle

Country: Australia Region: Clare Valley

Varietal: Semillon Vintage: 2018

Colour: White Style: Dry

Producer: Mount Horrocks

Description:
Just a few hundred metres to the north east of the estate Riesling vineyard lies the Mount Horrocks planting of Semillon. The soil is weaker; the profile rockier. Maintaining finesse in Semillon is an art, starting with vineyard site selection (Semillon can be heavy bearing in deeper soils). The grape bunches from this vineyard are small, especially in
a low-yielding season. Such was the case in 2018.

The result? A bright, lemony, intense and fresh wine; a hint of spice and creamy texture reflecting its time in French oak barriques. Stephanie believes this is “one of the best”. 

The grapes were cool crushed and de-stemmed and only the free run juice was used. The must fermented in stainless steel tanks at 14-16°C over a two to three week period. The juice was inoculated with a mixture of champagne yeasts plus other neutral yeasts and fermented to dryness. No malolactic fermentation occurred.

95/100 Points- Halliday 2020 Wine Companion
"Impressively light gold in colour. Vibrantly fruited (and pale) for a barrel-aged white, displaying textured and layered lemon fruit and spicy oak, with a touch of creamy lees complexity. Great acid balance and impressive length of flavour – richness and depth without being the least bit over the top. Drink to 2029."

Tasting Note:
This wine is pale yellow in colour, with aromas of stewed apple and lightly toasty, spiced oak. This Semillon is light and bright on the palate with layers of fruit complemented by subtle savoury notes from the oak and well-balanced acidity on a long, elegant and dry finish.

Food Matches: Chicken / Veal / Steamed Fish