What is a Cleanskin Wine?

Cleanskin wine refers to red, white, or sparkling wines that come without labels or detailed information about the winery. Despite their unlabelled status, cleanskin wines can offer exceptional quality at a fraction of the usual price.

Why Are Wines Cleanskin?

1. Overproduction: Wineries sometimes produce more wine than they can sell. To manage excess inventory and prevent wastage, these wines are sold as cleanskins at reduced prices.
2. Label Changes or Discontinuation: Wines that were previously branded and sold at higher prices may become cleanskins due to changes in branding or label updates. When a winery updates its label or changes its brand, older wines might be sold as cleanskins.
3. Surplus Stock: Occasionally, wineries have surplus stock from past vintages or production runs. These wines, although still of high quality, are sold as cleanskins to make room for new vintages.

Why Choose Cleanskin Wines?

Cleanskin wines offer incredible value. Often sold at significantly lower prices than their labelled counterparts, you could be enjoying a premium-quality bottle worth $20 or more for a fraction of the cost. It’s a smart way to experience excellent wines without paying a premium.

Explore Western Australian Cleanskin Wines

Discover our selection of Western Australian cleanskin wines and enjoy premium quality at unbeatable prices. Whether you’re in the mood for red, white, or sparkling, our cleanskin wines offer exceptional value for money. Browse now and find your next favourite wine!

What makes Western Australian wine so highly acclaimed worldwide?

Learn more HERE

SSB and SBS Wines in Western Australia

Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon are both distinct grape varieties with their own unique characteristics. While both grapes are frequently sold as single varietals, they are also commonly blended together to create dynamic wines, combining the best qualities of each. The two main blends, SSB (Semillon Sauvignon Blanc) and SBS (Sauvignon Blanc Semillon), offer distinct styles that highlight different aspects of these two popular varieties and we cover the differences between the two below.

In Western Australia, two popular white wine blends are commonly found: SSB (Semillon Sauvignon Blanc) and SBS (Sauvignon Blanc Semillon). While both blends combine two key grape varieties, they differ in the proportions and order in which the grapes are blended, resulting in distinct characteristics. Western Australian regions like Margaret River and the Great Southern are renowned for producing exceptional examples of these blends. Understanding the unique features of each wine can enhance your appreciation of these styles.

SSB (Semillon Sauvignon Blanc) 

In the SSB blend, Semillon is the dominant grape, with Sauvignon Blanc playing a supporting role. Semillon is known for its texture, body, and ageing potential, while Sauvignon Blanc contributes vibrant acidity and aromatic intensity. The result is a wine that is typically fuller-bodied and more complex than an SBS.

SSB wines are characterised by a rounder mouthfeel and softer texture. The dominant Semillon imparts citrus, lemon zest, grass, and occasionally a hint of honeysuckle or toasted nuts. The Sauvignon Blanc adds fresh aromas of passionfruit, lime, and grapefruit, giving the wine a refreshing edge. On the palate, you can expect flavours of lemon curd, green apple, and even a subtle waxiness or savoury notes from the Semillon, balanced by the lively acidity from the Sauvignon Blanc. An SSB though can differ greatly depending on its age in bottle.

Food Pairings for SSB

The richness and texture of SSB wines make them excellent with a variety of dishes. Their complexity allows them to pair well with both delicate and bold flavours.

• Seafood: Grilled or roasted fish, such as snapper or barramundi, and shellfish like prawns or scallops work beautifully with the balance of acidity and texture.
• Cheese: Soft cheeses like goat cheese or creamy brie complement the wine’s creaminess, while a mild blue cheese pairs well with its herbal notes.
• Poultry: Lightly roasted chicken or turkey with citrus-based sauces or herb stuffing can harmonise with the wine’s citrus and herbal elements.

SBS (Sauvignon Blanc Semillon)

In the SBS blend, Sauvignon Blanc is the lead grape, with Semillon providing structure and texture. This combination is known for its vibrancy, aromatic intensity, and crisp acidity. In Western Australia, SBS wines often showcase the bright, fresh qualities that have made Sauvignon Blanc such a popular grape variety.

SBS wines are typically more aromatic, with prominent notes of gooseberry, grass, passionfruit, and lime from the Sauvignon Blanc. Semillon often contributes a touch of melon & stone fruit. On the palate, the wine is light to medium-bodied, with a vibrant acidity and fresh citus and tropical fruit flavours that are characteristic of Sauvignon Blanc, while the Semillon provides that fresh cut grass, crisp taste and some stone fruit. Depending on how much Semillon is blended will depend on if the wine can be bottle aged (cellared) Typically if it is 45% Semillon then it can age for 5 years, but a higher Sauvignon Blanc percentage would mean a more “drink now” style.

Food Pairings for SBS

The bright and fresh character of SBS wines makes them an excellent match for a range of dishes, especially those with bold, fresh flavours.

• Seafood: Oysters, grilled squid, or fish tacos pair well with the wine’s acidity and citrusy notes.
• Salads: A goat cheese salad with citrus dressing and fresh herbs complements the wine’s herbaceous and fruity flavours.
• Spicy Cuisine: SBS works wonderfully with Thai or Indian dishes, where the wine’s acidity and fruitiness balance the heat of spices like chili and ginger.

Conclusion

Both SSB and SBS blends offer distinct drinking experiences. SSB can be richer and fuller, with the Semillon adding depth and complexity, while SBS is typically crisper and more aromatic, with a zesty, fruit-forward profile. These blends thrive in Western Australia’s diverse climates, particularly in the Margaret River and Great Southern regions, where the terroir helps shape their unique characteristics. Whether you prefer the richness of SSB or the freshness of SBS, both blends offer versatile food pairing opportunities and are ideal choices for a wide range of occasions.