Mike De Iuliis has made some fine Hunter Semillons. I remember scoffing down about six bottles of the 2002 over the course of a few weeks in 2010. Gorgeous wines, ridiculously priced and with plenty of life left in them. I’m having a bit more difficulty with this 2012 release though. There’s a cut lettuce character that I’ve witnessed in a few 2012 Semillons from the region and I’m just not that fond of it. I also suspect it’s related to a relative lack of intensity on the palate. Still, time may make a fool of me.
Look, it’s citrus driven with some grassiness and it feels fine in the mouth; crisp but not aggressive. It’s not really lacking in persistence either. After the initial prickle of sulfur dissipates it’s perfectly pleasant drinking. And I do think it will improve with time…but I’m not sure how much. Good 88+
Region: Hunter Valley
Alcohol: 11.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $18
Tasted: September 2012