The Islander Estate Vineyards, Wally White, 2023, Kangaroo Island, Australia

Region Kangaroo Island Country Australia Type White Grape Semillón Style Rich, creamy, mineral. ABV 14% Closure Screwcap Method Sustainable French winemaking know-how, Kangaroo Island freshness and two years of patience in oak. A serious white with plenty of charm, and one that can reward another 15 years in the cellar.. About the wine A French winemaker, an Australian island and a grape that Bordeaux knows rather well. This is Wally White, where Old World tradition gets a little Kangaroo Island sunshine. Behind the bottle is Jacques Lurton, a Bordeaux-born winemaker who has spent decades exploring what happens when classic French grape varieties find new homes around the world. And Sémillon, one of Bordeaux's most celebrated white grapes, was always going to be an interesting one to bring along. Wally White brings together the richness of traditional French winemaking with the freshness of Kangaroo Island's cool maritime climate. But here's the clever bit: Jacques harvests the grapes twice. An early picking captures bright acidity, while a later harvest brings extra richness and texture. Two harvests, one beautifully balanced wine. The grapes are hand-picked, gently pressed and fermented in large French oak barrels. Then comes two years of ageing, with regular stirring during the first four months to build that gorgeous creamy texture. It's a patient process, and you can certainly taste the difference. Tasting notes Fresh lemon rind, juicy white peach and rich lemon curd, with delicate vanilla and a little smoky oak. Creamy and generous on the palate, yet beautifully fresh, with a mineral finish and mouthwatering acidity. Food Pairing Suggestions Crispy roast pork belly, garlic prawn pasta, butter-seared scallops or roast chicken with a creamy lemon sauce. That lovely richness also makes it a brilliant match for lobster, grilled fish with beurre blanc or a creamy mushroom risotto. About the winemaker In 2000 Jacques Lurton planted an 11 ha vineyard near Parndana in Kangaroo Island's heartland and christened the estate 'The Islander'. Close planting to restrict yields and increase concentration, fermentation in concrete tanks and old-fashioned basket pressing, plus quality fine-grained French oak, all combine to produce wines with great structure and longevity.