At a refreshing and infinitely drinkable 10% alcohol, their classic 2008 Hunter Valley Semillon is a solid example of this distinctive style that can be approached in its relative youth, though it ages wonderfully. It begins a little mute with subtle aromas of pure lime juice, fresh herbs and white pepper. With a light body, and crisp, lemony palate, it gives a long citrusy finish. In late 2009 it was going through a bit of a closed stage with nervy fruit flavors looking to manifest themselves. By the time I tasted it again in January, 2010, it was emerging nicely from this slumber. Drink 2010-2016. Founded in 1970, Brokenwood, by virtue of its illustrious founders (3 lawyers from Sydney) and a proven track-record for producing superlative wines, is today amongst the Hunter Valley’s icons. Production is now at around 100,000 cases with about 50% of this being accounted for by the Cricket Pitch Red and White. Hunter Valley fruit constitutes around 25% of production and it’s their wines from this region that really make Brokenwood outstanding. Brokenwood’s famous Graveyard Vineyard was planted in 1968 using Shiraz cuttings from the vineyards of a couple of the Hunter’s oldest examples: Tyrrell’s and McWilliams. The soils at Graveyard are relatively infertile, slowing the ripening process and giving small vines.Importer: Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; www.oldbridgecellars.com

Light, tangy and refreshing for its deft balance of citrus, pear and apple flavors, persisting impressively on the delicate finish. Needs time to develop. Best after 2013. 300 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / New South Wales / Hunter Valley Select to Add