2023 Mount Horrocks Semillon Organic, Clare Valley

This sees time on lees and time in French oak, elevating the variety. It's bright and tense, a racy number with requisite lemon/lime citrus fruit characters, gentle gingery spice notes, some leafy, wet fern characters, a touch of mint and some lifted frangipani and jasmine floral elements. Lovely stuff. It feels brisk and tightly wound to taste, a puff of light chalkiness through the palate and a superb volley of minerally acidity finishing super fresh and very long. An understatement here, despite its vigour. Drink now for its more vibrant expression, but, geez, cellaring some should see a beautifully mellow and savoury wine come about.

95 points Special Value Mike Bennie winecompanion.com.au

Mount Horrocks Semillon Organic is a beautifully crafted white wine from the Clare Valley, South Australia. Produced by Mount Horrocks Wines, an estate known for its commitment to organic viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking, this Semillon is a benchmark for the variety in Australia. It highlights the purity, elegance, and textural complexity that make Clare Valley Semillon so distinctive.

The Semillon grapes are grown in Mount Horrocks' certified organic vineyards, where the estate’s meticulous care ensures fruit of exceptional quality. The Clare Valley’s unique combination of cool nights, warm days, and mineral-rich soils allows the grapes to develop bright acidity and intense flavors, while organic practices enhance the wine’s natural vibrancy and sense of place.

Winemaking focuses on preserving the integrity of the fruit while adding complexity and texture. The grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed, with fermentation occurring in stainless steel and French oak barrels. Partial barrel aging on lees enhances mouthfeel and depth, creating a wine that balances freshness with a layered, creamy texture.

In the glass, Mount Horrocks Semillon Organic shines with a pale straw hue. The nose is expressive, offering aromas of fresh citrus, lemon curd, and green apple, with hints of honeydew melon, wildflowers, and a touch of flinty minerality. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and vibrant, with flavors of lime zest, white peach, and subtle toast notes. The finish is clean and precise, underpinned by refreshing acidity and a delicate mineral edge.

This Semillon pairs beautifully with seafood dishes such as seared scallops, grilled prawns, or oysters. It also complements creamy pastas, light poultry dishes, and soft cheeses. While delightful in its youth for its fresh citrus notes, Mount Horrocks Semillon Organic has the structure to age gracefully for 8-10 years, developing richer honeyed and nutty characteristics with time.