LOVEDALE SEMILLON 2003

Vineyard Region Hunter Valley Vineyard Conditions The growing season prior to the 2003 vintage was dominated by the worst drought on record since 1902. Spring rainfall was virtually negligible with the only useful rainfall period recorded in December. This resulted in excellent ripening conditions producing white wines rich in fruit flavour but maintaining an attractive level of balanced acidity. Grape Variety Semillon Vinification and Maturation Grapes for this wine were handpicked in the very early stages of ripeness to create and maintain the Lovedale style . The grapes are transferred to McWilliams Drainers where pressing by gravity gently extracts free-run juice and limits skin contact. After 48 hours settling, the clear free-run juice is inoculated with neutral yeast and fermented slowly at cold temperatures to retain varietal flavours. With minimal contact and limited handling this superb wine is ready for bottling. Winemaker Comments Phil Ryan Colour Very pale straw with green hues Aroma Pristine primary fruit aromas of lemon and lime with light floral characters
and a hint of passionfruit.

Palate The palate is a refined and delicate blend of subtle lemon and lime flavours with a hint of grapefruit on the mid palate. Soft acidity provides a tight palate structure that finishes with honey and toast complexity. Analysis ALC/VOL: 12% pH: 3.06 Last Tasted Aug, 2008 Peak Drinking Now through to 2014
ACIDITY: 6.45 G/L

PHIL RYAN Mount Pleasant Chief Winemaker