Torbreck Vintners, Barossa Valley (Australia) Semillon 2022

 While so many wine regions have abandoned Semillon as a table wine, Torbreck and other Aussies have stuck with it.  It was one of the first varieties planted in the Barossa Valley some 160 years ago.  Today, there’s a nucleus of old, low yielding Semillon vines.  Torbreck’s 2022 was sourced from three family owned vineyards growing what is identified as the pink-skinned Madera Semillon clone found primarily in the Barossa.  40% of the wine was aged in seasoned French oak.  In the glass, the wine has a pale yellow color and the nose displays ripe fig with secondary notes of white peach and fennel.  It is smooth and creamy on the palate with fig, citrus and mineral hints that carry through with a delightful freshness in the aftertaste.  This distinct version will pair well with clam chowder and richly sauced fish dishes.