Winemaking and Drinking
The 2016 Tyrrell's Vat 1 Semillon is a distinguished wine that hails from the Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s premier wine regions. This wine is a testament to Tyrrell's dedication to producing high quality wines with a strong sense of place and tradition. Established in 1858 by English immigrant Edward Tyrrell, Tyrrell’s Wines has grown into one of Australia’s most iconic wineries, renowned for its exceptional Semillon.
Origins and Production
The Vat 1 Semillon is made exclusively from grapes grown in Tyrrell’s own vineyards in the Hunter Valley, specifically sourced from the HVD and Short Flat vineyards. These vineyards are notable for their sandy, alluvial soils which contribute to the unique characteristics of the wine. The 2016 vintage benefitted from an ideal growing season with optimal weather conditions, resulting in a wine of remarkable purity and elegance.
The winemaking process for the Vat 1 Semillon is meticulous and reflects Tyrrell’s commitment to tradition and quality. The grapes are handpicked in the early hours of the morning to preserve their freshness and acidity. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks at cool temperatures, which helps to retain the delicate aromatics and crisp structure of the wine. The wine is then aged in stainless steel for several years before release, allowing it to develop complexity and depth.
Tasting Notes
The 2016 Tyrrell's Vat 1 Semillon presents a luminous pale straw color in the glass. On the nose, it offers an enticing bouquet of citrus fruits, green apple, and hints of lime zest, underpinned by subtle floral notes and a touch of minerality. The palate is vibrant and zesty, with flavors of lemon, lime, and Granny Smith apple. Its high acidity is balanced by a creamy texture and a long, refreshing finish, characteristic of a classic Hunter Valley Semillon.
Awards and Accolades
The 2016 Vat 1 Semillon has garnered significant acclaim both domestically and internationally. It has been awarded several prestigious accolades, including:
- Gold Medal at the 2017 Royal Sydney Wine Show
- Trophy for Best Semillon at the 2018 Hunter Valley Wine Show
- 95 points from James Halliday's Wine Companion
- Gold Medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2018
These awards underscore the wine’s exceptional quality and Tyrrell’s expertise in crafting world-class Semillon. The flagship range. Made in small volumes and produced using only the best parcels of fruit from the top vineyards, these wines showcase the very best that the Hunter Valley has to offer. One of Australia’s oldest and most awarded collections of wine.
| Wine Type | White wine |
| Producer | Tyrrells |
| State | New South Wales |
| Region | Hunter Valley |
| Variety | Semillon |
| Year | 2016 |
| Volume | 750 mL |
| Alcohol | 11% |