Higher Plane Semillon Sauvignon Blanc 2024
G 91
Refreshing and easy. Salted sea succulents, white pineapple and fresh blossoms. The palate is crisp and generous for the style, with a dense fruit profile that drives right through to la-la land. The acid is resolved, the pithy texture adding shape and depth. More tropical fruits and citrus follow on the palate. It’s a smashing example of the classic Western Australian blend — a reminder that a simple, crisp SSB still has its place. Drink now–2027 Higher Plane Shiraz Tempranillo 2022 G 91 It’s a spicy little wine that leans more heartthrob (fruit) than intellectual (structure), and honestly, that’s fine by me. White pepper, red skins, and blood plums. The structure is gentle — chalky-soft tannins, decent length — but the fruit steals the show: pristine and bright, with notes of strawberry stew, bark and cinnamon. It might not be one to cellar, but it’s certainly a crowd-pleaser. Drink now–2028 Lenton Brae Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 G 91 Dried black cherries, blackberry bush, and cocoa nibs. Oak is very savoury, with cumin and anchovy. Some wild red berries creep in mid- palate. This has settled into itself with sandy tannins and a push of acidity. Charred meats are calling. Drink now McHenry Hohnen Marsanne Roussanne 2024 G 91 Thoughtful grape-growing, intentional winemaking, and a little seasonal luck are why McHenry Hohnen consistently nail an enjoyable Marsanne– Roussanne blend year after year. Ginger tea, peach skin, and nashi pear lead the charge. Both varieties are handled separately – roussanne fermented in concrete, marsanne in tank – then blended later. The palate is all-encompassing: it suggests weight without ever throwing its elbows out. It is much too sophisticated for that. Bitter apricot kernels, a long savoury line, and a quietly moreish finish. It’s giving sunset-in-a-glass energy. Drink now–2029 Moss Brothers Moses Rock Sauvignon Blanc 2025 G 91 A light lemon hue here, the nose reveals notes of citrus, nettles, peaches, spices and lemon curd. There is a fine minerally support system in place and the wine is well balanced and of medium length. Crunchy acidity carries it and we can expect that it will provide very attractive drinking over the next couple of years. Drink now–2027
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The Vintage Journal – Regional Focus
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