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Amberley Estate

http://www.amberleyestate.com.au/

Amberley Estate was founded in 1985 with the first vintage release occurring in 1990.
The site for Amberley was chosen after an exhaustive search within the region for a property containing all of the critical ingredients of: sheltered eastern facing slopes, deep free draining gravely loam soils, good water supply. The natural beauty of the estate is a bonus.
Their founding mission was that of producing great wine using the best possible methods. They have now moved one step further from this to an ambitious long term brand mission: "To be the leader in crafting high quality wines from unique varieties, not commonly found in the Margaret River region".

Secret Lane Semillon Sauvignon Blanc 2009

A new wine from Amberley sourced from these well established vines in the Yallingup region. Has a distinct leafy slightly spicy herbaceous character on the nose. The palate is crisp and intensely flavoured with a very long finish. Will give the NZ Savvies a run for their money.

Score: 90/100
Cellar: 2 years

Semillon Sauvignon Blanc 2007 ($22.50)

This is the quintessential example of the Sem Sav Blanc. A piercing bracing and racy blend with a zippy crunchy acid sustain a long precise palate. Slightly herbaceous with some tropical gooseberry and citrus characters.

Score:93/100

First Selection Semillon 2005

Amberley have created a distinctive style with this blend that also gets a little oak. Shows some creamy lees influence and an immensely powerful palate. Still really tight and bracing with that penetrating acid sustaining a long palate. This is a wine that will develop richness and complexity as it ages.

Score:94/100

Chardonnay 2006 ($22.50)

A medium-weight Chardonnay displaying some nice creamy stone fruit and citrus aromas with a palate of rich texture and excellent, mouth feel. Has a wonderful fine acid that lifts the palate. Very attractive, easy drinking style.

Score:87/100

Cabernet Merlot 2007 ($22.50)

Beautifully rich and robust blend from this very good vintage. It retains a supple richness while packing some real kick with ripe assertive tannins and a little oak infusion. The palate is warm and fleshy and ideal for drinking over the next few years.

Score:87/100

Chimney Brush Chenin Blanc 2007 ($15)

This slightly sweet wine became an instant success some years ago when it first hit the market. It is still delightful with the fresh tropical fruits, a little residual sugar and fresh acid finish providing a lovely easy drinking style for summer.

Score:85/100

First Selection Semillon 2004 ($35)

Here is an attempt to push Semillon along with some extra work. Shows some creamy lees influence and an immensely powerful palate. It's just a pup now but it shows what can be done with quality Margaret River Semillon.

Score:93/100