Aged Clare Riesling and aged Hunter Semillon – two superb Australian wine styles that deserve more love. Here’s a pair of fine examples, both released as mature wines.
Thomas Wines Cellar Reserve Braemore Hunter Valley Semillon 2010
Released as a six-year-old. Briny and absolutely singing with natural acidity, this is still a very primal wine from a somewhat unheralded Sem vintage. That acidity is a fraction bitter, but it underpins everything nicely. Love the contrast between green apple and the first hint of toast, though this is still more backwards than toasty. Top form Semillon, with classic length and a firm backbone. Probably not the most explosive Braemore, but such quality wine. Best drinking: 2019-2030+. 18.5/20, 94/100+. 11.4%, $65. Would I buy it? I’d go a bottle at least.
Tim Adams Reserve Clare Valley Riesling 2011
Also released as a six-year-old. A subdued, almost steely, mineral water and grapefruit nose with the barest faint hint of toast. The palate is explosively acidic, a wild ride of super grapefruit acid, the intensity of the finish exceptionally long and powerful. This is an acid giant of a wine, perhaps not ready now, but with a length that is simply amazing. Bargain price. Best drinking: 2019-2031+. 18.5/20, 94/100+. 10.5%, $29. Would I buy it? Great value and delicious. Yes for sure.
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