2026 Torbreck Woodcutter's Semillon, Barossa Valley

Pale colour. Intense pure lemon glacé, grapefruit aromas. Sweet pure grapefruit, lemon curd, tonic water flavours, fine chalky textures and crisp minerally acidity. Lovely density and flow. 100-plus-year-old vineyards. Now–2030

94 points Andrew Caillard and Jeni Port for The Vintage Journal, August 2026

Woodcutter’s Semillon shows another side of Torbreck beyond the estate’s powerful reds. Founded in the 1990s by David Powell with deep Rhône inspiration, Torbreck has always focused on old vine Barossa fruit and respectful, traditional winemaking. Today Chief Winemaker Ian Hongell continues that philosophy, working closely with growers across the region. While Barossa is famous for Shiraz, it also holds historic Semillon plantings that can deliver brightness and subtle texture when handled with restraint.

Fruit for the 2026 Woodcutter’s Semillon was sourced from old-vine vineyards in Rowland Flat, Ebenezer and Lyndoch, with the oldest dating to 1890 and even the latest in the 1960s. The grapes were hand-harvested over several days, with fermentation occurring in a combination of stainless steel and seasoned French oak. After three months of maturation, the wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Pale straw in colour, the wine opens with lifted aromas of lemon, grapefruit and makrut skins and blossoms layered with hints of fresh herbs. The lively, gently textural palate is long and medium-bodied with cleansing, tangy acidity.

Pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, fish tacos and lighter white meat dishes. Best enjoyed while youthful and vibrant, it will hold comfortably for several years, if you prefer the more honeyed flavours brought on by bottle age.