2009 ILR Reserve Semillon
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Tasting notes
The 2009 ILR Reserve Semillon is the oldest on the table here in this vertical of ILR Semillon, and when I place this glass next to the 2024 vintage, the difference is evident but not appreciable. That's an impressive feat for a 15-year age gap. So, this 2009 leads with aromas of cold buttered toast, preserved lemon rind, crushed shells, white pepper and brine. It is salty, and it is fine, but it is also light, dry and streamlined. This is really good and has years ahead of it. 10.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Incidentally, I had a bottle of the 2006 ILR at dinner last night, and it was close to being wine of the night for me (pipped at the post by a bottle of 1985 Tyrrell's Pinot Noir!), among a swathe of aged Hunter Valley wines. It looked restrained, gently toasty and utterly composed.
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
A little spritz gives youthful brightness to the palate. Creamy, long finish which still has a lot of vitality and ageability. Dry, light yet highly complex with lanolin and smoke aromas. (RH)
(10.5% alcohol): Light yellow-gold. Vibrant, mineral-laced lemon, quince and honeysuckle aromas show a hint of waxiness that builds with air. Dry, taut and chewy on the palate, offering bitter citrus pith and quinine flavors and a strong note of tarragon. This sharply delineated, deep wine finishes with superb tension and resonating floral and mineral qualities. Experience says that it will age effortlessly.