Tyrrell's 2014 Hunter Valley Semillon $24
As far as semillon goes, there's really only one region that can claim it as their star variety and that's the Hunter Valley. The Hunter style has evolved over the years and it's well known for its incredible ability to age gracefully for a decade or more while still being a light fine wine in its youth.
Typical Hunter Valley semillons are picked relatively early to achieve freshness and zesty acidity. Alcohol levels are therefore usually a little lower too. This latest Tyrrells semillon is a crunchy lightweight 11.5% alcohol, perfect for summer quaffing. It has the trademark lemon citrus fruit flavours and aromas of the best Hunter semillons too and although it's a lighter wine, there's no shortage of flavour here either. The higher end Tyrrells semillons tend to be more restrained in their youth so I suspect this entry level wine is made for earlier consumption.
It would be quite easy to enjoy this wine on its own but it would be a great accompaniment a piece of grilled fish or any light simple dish. Of course you could also leave it in your cellar for another five to 10years, the result would be worth the wait.
Fergus McGhie is sales and marketing manager at Mount Majura Vineyard in Canberra.
