Tyrrells Semillon 2023

When Edward Tyrrell established his family estate in the Hunter Valley of Australia in 1858 it was the same year that Abraham Lincoln accepted the Republican nomination for President. Today his ancestors still run this estate, producing what is considered by pretty much all wine professionals to be the archetype for dry Semillon in the world.

Semillon is usually used as a blending grape to taper the aggressive nature of Sauvignon Blanc, particularly in the Bordeaux region of France. In the hot, dry climate of the Hunter Valley it thrives as a solo artist, with the Tyrrell family coaxing extra layers of dimension from the grapes. Fermented and aged only in stainless steel this is a wine that screams for lighter summer dishes.

Crack the cap and pour a glass, but make sure the wine is warmer than refrigerator temperature, closer to 50 degrees. The nose is a subtle mix of lemon zest, chamomile, and beeswax candle. The palate is soft and lush but a zippy level of acidity pops into the finish providing just enough frame. Serve with grilled shrimp or scallops, maybe with a kiss of pesto over pasta.