Audrey Wilkinson The Ridge Semillon 2021: A Hunter Valley Classic

Audrey Wilkinson The Ridge Semillon 2021

In the heart of the Hunter Valley lies a vineyard steeped in history, where Semillon has thrived for over a century. One of the finest expressions of this grape variety comes from Audrey Wilkinson The Ridge Semillon 2021. This flagship wine is a tribute to both heritage and winemaking precision, showcasing the very best of the region’s old vines planted along the historic Western Ridge.

A Story of the Vineyard

The Ridge vineyard is an iconic site in the Audrey Wilkinson portfolio, with old vines that have withstood the test of time. The 2021 vintage was handpicked from these very vines, where the fruits of meticulous viticulture are reflected in every glass. As the winemaker notes, the grapes were handpicked in the last week of January, ensuring that only the finest fruit made it into the wine. They were whole bunch pressed to minimise phenolics, creating a wine of clarity and purity.

A Perfect Vintage

The 2021 growing season in the Hunter Valley will be remembered as one of great promise and fulfilment. A dry winter was followed by ideal spring and summer rains, setting the vineyard up for a bountiful season. While yields were slightly down, the quality of the fruit was exceptional, producing white wines with remarkable flavour concentration. As the grapes ripened under consistent warm and dry conditions, they developed the distinctive characteristics that make Hunter Valley Semillon so unique.

Tasting Notes

Colour: In the glass, The Ridge Semillon 2021 displays a pale yellow colour with bright green hues, a sign of the wine’s youthful vibrancy.

Bouquet: On the nose, an intense aroma of lime and lemongrass immediately greets you, underpinned by subtle hints of green apples. The bouquet is fresh, zesty, and perfectly suited to this varietal’s reputation for lively citrus notes.

Palate: The palate is equally energetic, bursting with flavours of lemon and lime juice, further enhanced by a touch of lemongrass and crisp green apple. There is a fine balance between the fruit flavours and the wine’s taut acidity, which gives it a fresh, structured profile. The long line of acidity provides a clean, lingering finish, making this a wine that will evolve beautifully with age.

Cellaring Potential

While this wine is highly enjoyable in its youth, with its vibrant fruit and bright acidity, it is also built to last. With an alcohol content of 11.5%, The Ridge Semillon 2021 has the structure to age gracefully for 20+ years, developing even greater complexity as it matures. Those who enjoy older Hunter Valley Semillons will find immense pleasure in cellaring this wine, allowing its flavours to deepen and evolve over time.

Food Pairing

The freshness and acidity of The Ridge Semillon make it a versatile food companion. Its citrus-driven profile pairs beautifully with fresh seafood, such as oysters, prawns, or delicate white fish. The hints of lemongrass and lime make it an excellent match for Asian cuisine, particularly dishes with fragrant herbs, such as Vietnamese salads or Thai curries. For those who prefer a simpler pairing, a plate of goat’s cheese or fresh garden salads will also complement the wine’s bright, crisp flavours.

Audrey Wilkinson’s The Ridge Semillon 2021 is a wine that reflects the best of Hunter Valley winemaking tradition. With its fresh, citrus-led palate and a structure built for longevity, it is a must-have for collectors and casual wine lovers alike. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for decades, this wine promises to deliver the quintessential experience of Hunter Valley Semillon at its finest.

This wine captures the essence of its terroir and the dedication of its winemakers, standing as a testament to Audrey Wilkinson’s long-standing commitment to quality and excellence in winemaking.