Winemaking and Drinking
The Brokenwood 2014 ILR (Iain Leslie Riggs) Semillon is a testament to the skill and dedication of the Brokenwood winery, nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Australia. The ILR Semillon is named in honor of Iain Leslie Riggs, who joined Brokenwood in 1982 and transformed it from a boutique winery to one of Australia's most respected producers. The 2014 vintage reflects the winery’s commitment to excellence and the unique terroir of the Hunter Valley.
The Hunter Valley is renowned for its Semillon, and the 2014 vintage is considered one of the best in recent years. The growing season in 2014 was marked by ideal weather conditions—mild temperatures and minimal rainfall—leading to a harvest of exceptionally high-quality grapes. This vintage embodies the region’s signature style of Semillon, which is characterized by its aging potential and distinctive flavor profile.
Tasting Notes
The Brokenwood 2014 ILR Semillon greets the palate with a vibrant and zesty character. It boasts a pale straw color with green hues, indicative of its youth and potential for aging. On the palate, it offers a harmonious balance of citrus and minerality. Lemon and lime flavors dominate, underpinned by a steely acidity that gives the wine its structure and longevity. As the wine matures, it develops complex layers of honey, toast, and a subtle nuttiness, typical of aged Hunter Valley Semillon.
The Nose
On the nose, the 2014 ILR Semillon is an aromatic delight. It opens with intense aromas of lemon blossom and freshly cut grass, intertwined with hints of green apple and lanolin. With time, these primary aromas evolve, revealing more complex notes of beeswax, toasted almond, and a hint of flinty minerality. This aromatic evolution is one of the hallmarks of a well-crafted Semillon, promising a rewarding experience for those who are patient enough to cellar the wine.
Awards and Accolades
The Brokenwood 2014 ILR Semillon has garnered significant acclaim both domestically and internationally. It has won multiple gold medals at prestigious wine shows, including the Hunter Valley Wine Show and the Royal Melbourne Wine Awards. Internationally, it has been praised by notable wine critics and publications, earning high scores and accolades. The wine’s ability to age gracefully has been highlighted in numerous reviews, solidifying its status as a benchmark for Hunter Valley Semillon.
Vineyards
The grapes for the ILR Semillon are sourced from Brokenwood’s premium vineyards in the Hunter Valley. These vineyards are planted on ancient sandy loam soils, which contribute to the wine’s distinct mineral character. The careful vineyard management practices ensure that the grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness, preserving their natural acidity and flavor intensity. The combination of the unique terroir and meticulous winemaking results in a wine that truly reflects the essence of the Hunter Valley
| Wine Type | White wine |
| Producer | Brokenwood |
| State | New South Wales |
| Region | Hunter Valley |
| Variety | Semillon |
| Year | 2014 |
| Volume | 750 mL |
| Alcohol | 11% |