Beautifully evolving expression of Hunter Valley Semillon, combining citrus purity, gentle maturity, and the textural depth that begins to emerge after several years in bottle. It opens with aromas of lemon peel, white flowers, and subtle stone‑dust minerality, followed by hints of beeswax and heather that signal its early development. On the palate, it is supple yet still tightly composed, carrying flavors of sliced lemon, green mango, and crushed stone with a lightly oily texture that remains balanced by clean acidity. The wine feels generous without heaviness, finishing with a saline lift and a touch of nuttiness that adds complexity while keeping the profile refined and focused. It is drinking beautifully now, showing both vibrancy and emerging secondary character, and still has the structure to continue aging gracefully.
97pts Halliday's Australian Wine Companion
At six years of age, the wine is beginning to bloom, displaying attractive ripe lemon, citrus curd and honeysuckle aromas. These characters are in the riper spectrum for this wine. The palate is on the generous side, but it still has the clarity and style one expects from Vat 1. There is no hiding the fact that '18 was a hot year. Consequently, this will be an earlier-drinking Vat 1, but no less enjoyable. That is the thing about iconic wines; the season may change, but their inherent qualities remain constant. Drink 2024-2035. - Toni Paterson
97pts James Suckling
A very complete aged semillon with sliced lemon, heather, green mango, and crushed stone aromas that follow through to a full body with a crunchy palate and cement and marble notes. Tight at the end. Lightly nutty. Plenty of flavor. The vines were planted in 1923. Drink now. Screw cap.
94pts Wine Enthusiast
A classic wine from a historic producer, this vintage offers a lovely, delicate perfume of honeyed citrus and waxy florals. There's an equally waxy texture to the mid-weight palate; a honeyed richness creeping in to mellow out the acidity (not as racy as other vintages). It's a lovely combo, an expression of place, time and variety that's showing nice bottle age. This won't be the longest lived “Vat 1” but it's sure is drinking deliciously now.
