So named from the Black Cluster vineyard, which took its moniker from the 1835 diary entry of winemaking pioneer George Wyndham in his first vintage: “Began my vintage. Filled the pipe with the must of the Black Cluster.”
Briar Hill part of a greater stable that includes Pepper Tree, and under custodianship by the Davis family. Winemaker is Alex Beckett.

Briar Ridge, Black Cluster, Semillon, Hunter Valley, 2023

Pale, pale lemon hue. Delicate and fresh citrus: lemon and lime leaf with a definite stony, minerally base. Near apple flesh depth yet that gets taken away as quickly as it is given while a smoky spice wafts across it all. Intensely positioned, while delicately flavoured. Citrus juice and near green apple. Gentle grip and texture (initially) disguise that signature Hunter razor that cuts late and deep. Slatey undertones drive long.

RRP: $50
Alc: 10.3%
Rating: 94/100

Wine sample courtesy of Briar Ridge and Dialogue PR