Carillion Wines are part of the greater stable of the Davis Family Vineyards (including Pepper Tree and Briar Ridge). They have their home base in the Hunter Valley, along with their own vineyards in Orange in the NSW Central West and South Australia’s old dirt of Wrattonbully. Andrew Ling is the winemaker. The fruit for this label was grown from cuttings taken from the renowned Baremore vineyard and planted at Carillion’s historic Tallavera Grove vineyard.

Carillion Wines, Old Grafts, Semillon, Hunter Valley, 2021

Lemon zest and lemongrass richness with riper yellow melon, offset by distinct protein and nutty depth from time spent on lees. The maturation on lees carries over to the palate, providing a textural counterpoint to the usual high toned Hunter acidity (which is still very prevalent through the intense finish). A fine wine that balances approachability and potential for longevity. 

RRP: $35
Alc: 11%
Rating: 18/20 (92/100)
Wine sample courtesy of Carillion Wines