The flagship white wine from Brokenwood. ILR are the initials  of Iain Leslie Riggs, Brokenwood’s former Chief Winemaker and Managing Director. He still pokes his nose in and about the place from time to time. Held back to encourage development before release, this year’s fruit comes from the famed Murphy’s Vineyard on the banks of Black Creek in Lovedale. Brokenwood’s website advises that they’re out of stock, but there’s still plenty floating about in retail land.

Brokenwood, ILR Reserve, Semillon, Hunter Valley, 2015

Soft golden hue with green highlights. Brown pear flesh, intense lime juice, almost a salty briny note with hints of honeycomb and fresh crumpet. Palate weight through quality fruit and a little time in bottle. That aforementioned briny note becomes saliva inducing dryness. A wine of length and finesse, destined for a long life ahead.

RRP: $100
Alc: 11%
Rating: 19/20 (96/100)

Wine sample courtesy of Brokenwood