New World: Semillon & Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc
2015: Gold 2 Silver 1 Bronze 3 Commended 1
2014: Gold 2 Silver 4 Bronze 0 Commended 4
The Semillon & Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc category is the New World’s equivalent of Jura: a small category that over-delivers, and that might be a hand-sell, but also genuinely has a place on a list. Our tasters were somewhat disappointed not to find too many good cheap wines (only one medal under a tenner) but the fact that this category picked up two Golds – only one fewer than the immeasurably larger Sauvignon Blanc section – tells you much of what you need to know about the quality.
Interestingly, it wasn’t all Hunter Valley. Or even all Australia. Might we see a bit more of this variety – either in conjunction with Sauvignon or solo – in the future? Here’s hoping.
Star Performer
Well done to Stella Bella, which followed its Gold for Suckfizzle Sem/Sauv last year with a Gold for its well-priced sibling this year. And a Silver for the Suckfizzle just for good measure!
From The Tasting Teams
‘The method I use to turn over wines that don’t sell very well [like New World Semillon], is to sell them with food – feature wines on the menu to match with specific dishes. We knock the price down a little bit too. People like that – it’s easier to just order the food and have the wine with it. You can turn over some expensive wines that way.’ Gustavo Medina, Rex Whistler Restaurant
‘This flight was really random in terms of styles.’ Sandro Lyhs, Oxo Tower Bar
‘At the top end, the quality was exceptional. I think I was surprised, given that so many people do Semillon/Sauvignon blends, that the wines by the glass at the cheaper end weren’t better. Even with exchange rates they should be getting something over here that people will enjoy.’ Sarah Jane Evans MW, team leader