When one includes McWilliam's Lovedale and Brokenwood ILR Reserve Semillons, no other single region, single-variety wine has acumulated so many Australian wine show trophies. This is a marvellous wine, with its lemon and lime-juice flavours running the length of its exhilarating palate and lingering aftertaste

1999 is maturing slower and more assuredly than any other Vat 1 to hit the re-release queue in years. It’s still a youthful green hue, disclosing nuances of lime, pepper, spice and peppermint. Pure, driven and seamless. Cross your fingers for a good cork.

Long and seamless, this slowly maturing Hunter semillon has a faintly buttery and toasty bouquet of melon and citrus, backed by delicate floral aromas. Its smooth and savoury palate reveals a deep core of fruit with tobacco-like and chalky undertones. Exceptionally tight and focused, it finishes with refreshingly tangy acidity.

The 1999 vintage is arguably the best of the nineties. The product of a near perfect growing season the wines have beautifully defined citrus flavours, refreshing acidity and finish long and dry. A classic cellaring vintage. Many of the wines are just beginning to reveal their true potential. Again, if you have never been a fan of aged Semillon then this is the vintage that could well turn you on.

Aromas of lemon and lime and some lightly honeyed toast. Hint of candle wax. Juicy fresh squeezed lime flavours with a little toasty development. Touch of spice and vanilla. Pure and perfectly balanced – everything is just right here. Exceptional length of flavour. Just starting to develop some complexity but still fresh and vibrant. Reminds me of the 1994 vintage a bit and I’d say it’s the best since.