Part 2. Semillon

Question 1

Semillon is a grape that is used in the Hunter Valley to produce distinctive wines (6 marks)
Identify ONE human influence in the vineyard and ONE human influence in the winery which contribute to the distinctive characteristics of Hunter Valley Semillon. Explain how they do so.

Answer 1

Vineyard influence (3 marks)
• Grapes picked early
• Retains high levels of natural acidity making the wine refreshing
• Retains high levels of natural acidity to aid long ageing in bottle
• Neutral green fruit and citrus character from early-picked grapes

Winery influence (3 marks)
• Inert vessel used for fermentation/post-fermentation storage
• Contact with oxygen kept to a minimum
• Extended ageing in bottle
• Inert vessels retain neutral fruit character
• Protection from oxygen prevents oxidised characteristics developing
• Bottle ageing contributes to flavours of honey and toast often found in these wines