2025 Murdoch Hill Sauvignon Blanc, Adelaide Hills

We were touring the vineyard when Michael Downer was told this wine won Best Sauvignon Blanc of Show at the Adelaide Hills Wine Show. Naturally, we headed to the Exeter Hotel for a glass afterwards. The accolade, justified. A benchmark expression, the sweet green notes reigned in, not so much tucked away as they are integrated. The vintage's intensity is on full show; it's got a vital core of fruit in palate-staining lemon and grapefruit, and crystalline aromas of spice and candied ginger, apple and pineberry. A portion of the wine was barrel fermented, another left on skins, and the resulting texture drives the acids and fruits into stratospheric heights. A marvel from 20 years of hard work in the vineyard.

95 points Special Value Katrina Butler winecompanion.com.au

Murdoch Hill is a family estate perched high in the Adelaide Hills, founded by the Downer family and shaped in recent years by winemaker Michael Downer, whose focus is on site transparency and bright, modern styles. The vineyards sit at elevation in a cool pocket that stretches the growing season and preserves natural acidity. Sauvignon Blanc thrives here, developing flavour slowly while holding a crisp spine that defines the Hills. The winery’s philosophy is minimal intervention with maximum attention to detail, letting fruit and place lead the conversation.

Fruit is picked early to capture freshness and aromatic lift. In the cellar, fermentation takes place in stainless steel to protect varietal purity, with a portion spending time on fine lees to add gentle texture. The goal is a Sauvignon that is vivid and clean rather than aggressively pungent, built around balance and drinkability.

Pale straw in colour, the aromas open with lime zest, passionfruit and green apple layered with fresh herbs and a faint flinty edge. The palate is light to medium bodied and lively, with citrus and tropical notes wrapped in bright acidity. Flavours of grapefruit and gooseberry carry into a long, mouthwatering finish that feels cool and precise.

It pairs beautifully with seafood, salads, goat cheese and light vegetable dishes. Best enjoyed young for its snap and vibrancy.