Semillon really is the great all-rounder. Low in alcohol but with high refreshment factor, food friendly but not reliant, and just as enjoyable with age as it is without.
If you’re guilty of overlooking this grape, the below examples from the Hunter Valley and Margaret River illustrate why you shouldn’t.
The ILR Reserve Semillon from Brokenwood, the 2026 Halliday Winery of the Year, is arguably Australia’s benchmark expression. Named after former longstanding winemaker Iain Riggs, it’s always bottle-aged for six years before release.
From fellow Hunter winery Briar Ridge comes the Stockhausen Semillon. Made in a classic regional style, it’s bright, citrusy and extremely drinkable.
And finally, the Wilyabrup Semillon from Lenton Brae is proof that great semillon exists outside New South Wales. A quarter of this wine is fermented and matured in new French oak, adding texture and depth.
Read more from the Tasting Team below, and hit the links to buy.
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