2025 Brokenwood Semillon, Hunter Valley

Brokenwood Semillon from the Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s classic white wines and a benchmark for the region’s world-renowned Semillon style. Brokenwood has been producing Hunter Semillon since the 1970s, earning a reputation for wines of purity, balance and remarkable longevity. Under winemaker Stuart Hordern, the estate continues to refine this style — crisp and racy in youth, then honeyed and toasty with graceful age.

The grapes are sourced from mature vineyards in the lower Hunter Valley, where sandy loam soils and maritime breezes create ideal conditions for growing Semillon of high natural acidity and low alcohol. The fruit is hand picked early in the season to retain freshness and delicacy, then fermented cool in stainless steel with no oak influence. The result is a wine of precision and clarity that highlights texture and citrus-driven purity rather than weight.

In the glass it gleams pale straw with green reflections. The aroma is lifted and clean, showing lemon zest, lime leaf and lemongrass with subtle hints of lanolin and wet stone. The palate is taut and bright, with flavours of citrus, green apple and grapefruit carried by crisp acidity and a long, mineral finish. As it ages, the wine develops layers of toast, honey and nutty complexity while remaining wonderfully fresh.

This wine pairs perfectly with fresh oysters, shellfish, sushi, or light salads with herbs and citrus. It also complements grilled white fish, poached chicken or soft cheeses. Enjoy it young for its vibrant energy or cellar it for ten to fifteen years to witness its transformation into one of Australia’s most beautiful aged whites.