2019 Thomas Braemore Semillon Cellar Reserve, Hunter Valley

Upon a richly flavoured foundation, attractive layers are beginning to build. Intense lemon gelato and lime curd flavours are complemented by a touch of fresh yoghurt and a hint of gunflint. The palate has fabulous generosity, improving the longer it sits in the glass. Take care not to over chill.

96 points Special Value Toni Paterson MW winecompanion.com.au

From one of the Hunter Valley’s most celebrated vineyards comes the Braemore Semillon Cellar Reserve from Thomas Wines, a wine that showcases both the remarkable longevity of the variety and the pedigree of this historic site. Thomas Wines was founded by Andrew Thomas in 1997 after years working alongside the legendary Murray Tyrrell, and the winery has since become one of the region’s leading specialists in Hunter Valley Semillon and Shiraz. The Braemore Vineyard in the Lovedale area is renowned for producing fruit of exceptional purity and balance, and the Cellar Reserve release represents carefully matured bottles that have been aged before release to highlight the extraordinary evolution that Hunter Valley Semillon undergoes in the bottle.

The wine shows a bright golden colour that reflects its time in the cellar. Aromas unfold with layers of lemon curd, lime marmalade and honey supported by classic aged Semillon notes of toast, lanolin and gentle beeswax.

As the wine opens further hints of baked citrus, chamomile and soft spice begin to appear. The palate is rich yet remarkably fresh with flavours of preserved lemon, honeyed citrus and toasted brioche carried by vibrant acidity that keeps the wine lively and focused. 

The finish is long, complex and beautifully balanced, demonstrating why mature Hunter Valley Semillon is considered one of Australia’s most distinctive white wine styles. It is exceptional with seafood dishes such as grilled lobster, roast chicken or richer seafood preparations.