Where Heritage Meets Gentle Sands
Tucked away at the northernmost edge of Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley vineyards lies Belford—a special plot first planted in 1933. Over the decades, these Semillon vines have sunk their roots into a top layer of soil so light and sandy it recalls the texture of talcum powder. The result? A wine shaped by the land’s delicate mineral presence and the steady hand of generations devoted to preserving the character of this historic site. So, what’s Tyrrell’s 2018 Belford Vineyard Semillon all about?
Appearance
In the glass, the 2018 Belford Vineyard Semillon shows a pale straw hue with a hint of green, a subtle sign of its youthful vibrancy and capacity to mature.
Nose
Lifted aromas of fresh lime and lemon blossom take centre stage, underpinned by a gentle minerality that speaks to the vineyard’s uniquely sandy soils. A faint floral note adds to the wine’s bright, inviting charm.
Palate
Crisp citrus flavours glide across the tongue, with a fine line of acidity that ties everything together. You’ll sense a chalky elegance on the mid-palate—an echo of Belford’s fine, powdery topsoil—providing structure and a lightly textural feel. This balance of zest and subtle grip is quintessential Hunter Valley Semillon, made distinctive by Belford’s terroir.
Finish
The finish is clean and enduring, with the citrus notes lingering pleasantly. There’s a quiet assurance here, suggesting that further cellaring will unravel additional layers of complexity in the years to come.
Food Pairing
Pair this Semillon with grilled seafood—think fresh prawns dressed simply with lemon and garlic—or a light goat’s cheese salad sprinkled with herbs. Its racy acidity also complements dishes like asparagus risotto or a zesty pea-and-mint soup.
Occasion
Equally suited to sunny alfresco lunches and refined dinner gatherings, the 2018 Belford Vineyard Semillon captures the essence of the Hunter Valley’s northern edge. Its refreshing profile and understated grace ensure it stands out wherever it’s poured.
From the delicate, sandy soils laid down in 1933 to the final flourish of citrus on your palate, this wine tells a story of place, history, and an enduring love for Semillon. Tyrrell’s 2018 Belford Vineyard Semillon pays tribute to the land that shaped it—light, powdery, and full of promise—with each satisfying sip.
Looking for Hunter Valley Accommodation for your next visit to Hunter Valley Wine Country? Start your search with Wotif today>
