2021 Harewood Estate Great Southern Sauvignon Blanc-Semillon

The traditional ‘classic dry white’ blend of the West has rarely been done much better than it is here. A blend of 55% Sauvignon Blanc and 45% Semillon from the Denmark sub-region, made from free run juice which is given a cool ferment in stainless steel and minimal fining. Almost trout stream clear, this is delightfully spicy. Clean, some gentle vegetal hints and a note of blackcurrant leaves with citrus, spices and dry herbs. Good length here and a soft lingering finish after a seductive texture. Nicely balanced for the full journey, with bright acidity running the length. Attractive now but will drink well for at least another two to four years.

There is a pungency to the nose here, that's gone beyond gooseberry and transcended into jalapeño. It's so past the point of overt that it's rounded back into spicy and interesting and quite exciting. But if you don't like fresh green chilli this may not be to your taste. In the mouth the wine is rounder and more plump than you'd expect from the aroms. All in all, a wine likely suited to a mildly spicy Asian meal – dumplings come to mind; loading up on coriander and green chilli will be recommended.