Great Southern Semillon Sauvignon Blanc

Tasting Notes:

• Colour: Pale, glistening yellow with a bright, fresh appearance.
• Aromatics: Herbaceous notes of gooseberry and green peas, complemented by floral and passionfruit aromas.
• Palate: On the palate, zesty citrus and tart gooseberry flavours are enhanced by tropical fruit, passionfruit, and a subtle minerality. The mouthfeel is textural and round, leading into a refreshing, crisp finish.
• Finish: The finish is clean and zippy, with lingering fruit flavours that make for an invigorating aftertaste.

Food Pairing Suggestions:

• Grilled Prawns or Fish Tacos: The wine’s citrusy freshness and tropical fruit profile complement seafood beautifully, especially with light, grilled dishes.
• Light Salads: Pair it with salads dressed in citrus or vinaigrette, where the acidity of the wine balances the tangy dressings.
• Creamy Cheeses: A perfect match for soft, creamy cheeses like Brie or goat cheese, where the wine’s freshness cuts through the richness of the cheese.
• Vegetarian Dishes: It also pairs well with fresh vegetable dishes, especially those with a light, herby profile.

Best Serving Temp:

Serve at 8-10°C to enhance the wine’s fresh and vibrant character.

Winemaking:

• Harvesting: The Semillon was handpicked before dawn on 21 February 2024, and the Sauvignon Blanc followed on 23 February 2024, both at optimal ripeness to preserve the wine’s freshness.
• Fermentation: Both varieties were gently de-stemmed, crushed, and fermented separately in stainless steel tanks at a cool temperature of 15°C for 13 days to preserve aromatic qualities.
• Blending: After fermentation, the wines were racked off lees and carefully blended, with the final mix comprising 55% Semillon and 45% Sauvignon Blanc, creating the perfect balance of structure, freshness, and length of flavour.
• Bottling: After blending trials, the wine was bottled to preserve its fresh, clean character and vibrant aromatics.

Technical Terms Explained:

• Gooseberry: A tart, green fruit character that brings brightness and acidity to the wine, often associated with Sauvignon Blanc.
• Asparagus: A herbaceous, green note often found in cool climate Sauvignon Blancs, adding complexity to the aromatic profile.
• Minerality: A subtle earthy or stony characteristic, often described as a “chalky” or “flinty” note, that provides a clean and refreshing quality on the palate.
• Zesty Citrus: A fresh, tangy citrus flavour, often lemon or lime, that adds vibrancy and lift to the wine.
• Textural: Describes a mouthfeel that is round and smooth, with a slight weight or creaminess, making the wine feel fuller on the palate.

Technical Data:

• Grape Varieties: 55% Semillon, 45% Sauvignon Blanc
• Region: Great Southern, Western Australia
• Alcohol: 12.5% by Vol | 7.5 Standard Drinks
• pH: 3.23
• Titratable Acidity: 6.9 g/L
• Cellaring: Best enjoyed young, but can be cellared for up to 3 years to develop further complexity.

Vintage Conditions:

The 2024 vintage in the Great Southern region was characterised by warmer weather and a dry harvest. Fruit ripened earlier than usual, resulting in full, ripe flavours in the grapes, with the Sauvignon Blanc benefiting particularly from the early ripening season. This allowed the wine to showcase its natural freshness and aromatic complexity, with both varietals perfectly expressing the character of the region.

Critic Reviews:

2024 Vintage

93+ points, Barry Weinman, Fine Wine Club, October 2024
94 points, Wine Showcase Magazine, New Releases Tasting, August 2024
92 points, Ray Jordan Wine, August 2024

Ray Jordan 2024 Review-
This is a really well made young blended white from the Great Southern. Sure, it’s restrained in line with the vintage, but there is quite beautiful perfume and then a precise palate with a persistent light flavour. Has a crunchy lightly citrus and minerally feel with a little light nuttiness and a keen lip-smacking acid to lift on the crunchy finish

About Singlefile Winery

Singlefile Winery is located in the prestigious wine region of Denmark, part of Western Australia’s Great Southern. With an impressive collection of awards, medals, and accolades, the winery meticulously selects grapes from premium vineyards. The main vineyards are set in the scenic Great Southern area, specifically in Denmark, Frankland River, Mount Barker and the Porongurups, while also sourcing from renowned regions like Margaret River. The Denmark property enjoys a cool maritime climate, ideal for growing aromatic varietals such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, which showcase the region’s elegance. In contrast, the Frankland River vineyard, characterised by its continental climate, produces robust varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. This diverse, multi-regional approach allows Singlefile to craft an exceptional range of wines, each reflecting the unique terroirs of their origins and the winemakers’ dedication to quality.

Family History

Singlefile Wines was co-founded in 2007 by Phil and Viv Snowden, both geologists, alongside their daughter Pam and son-in-law Patrick Corbett. Each member had established successful careers before coming together to create Singlefile, united by a deep passion for wine. Pam and Patrick’s time living in Italy as a young couple solidified their appreciation for fine wines, while summer reunions with Phil and Viv provided opportunities to explore Old World wine regions, planting the seeds for their own winery.

After selling their successful consultancy, Snowden Mining, in 2004, Phil and Viv sought a new venture. They, along with Pam and Patrick, immersed themselves in learning about Australia’s key wine regions, determined to find the ideal site for producing exceptional cool-climate wines. Their journey led them to Denmark in Western Australia, where they discovered a slice of paradise. Leveraging their geological expertise, Phil and Viv chose an established vineyard that promised to showcase the true essence of Denmark’s terroir. This site, which now houses the cellar door, became the foundation for Singlefile and its celebrated Chardonnay wines.

Following the construction of the Cellar Door, Patrick and Pam relocated to the east coast of Australia for a year to establish distribution channels, working with sommeliers, trade partners, and consumers to build awareness of Singlefile. Meanwhile, Phil and Viv focused on refining their viticultural practices and enhancing the cellar door experience for visitors.

Today, Patrick plays a crucial role in producing all Singlefile wines, while Pam manages the daily operations. Phil and Viv reside on the Denmark property, keeping a close watch on the vineyards and cellar door activities.

From its family origins, Singlefile has evolved into a respected winery, largely thanks to the dedicated team that supports the founders in realising their vision. Despite its growth, Singlefile retains a family essence, remaining true to its boutique beginnings.

At Singlefile, quality is paramount, achieved through a minimal intervention philosophy in both vineyard and winery. The wines are crafted as naturally as possible, allowing the unique characteristics of the environment to shine in each bottle.

Singlefile is proud to be recognised as one of the premier wineries in the Great Southern region. The entire Singlefile family is driven by a commitment to produce top-quality wines, encapsulated in the Latin motto on their crest: Semper Superne Nitens – “the pursuit of excellence.”

Singlefile’s dedication to making exceptional wines is paralleled by its commitment to the Great Southern region. It’s as large as it is diverse. Its geography is a patchwork of coastal maritime land, gently undulating hills, open grazing country, eucalypt forests and granite outcrops. A true liquorice all-sorts of land girt by sea. And this variety is what makes the Great Southern so convincing as a supreme winemaking region.

Since its inaugural vintage in 2008, Singlefile Wines has been forging relationships with growers across the Great Southern region, under the guidance of wine luminary Larry Cherubino. Together, we meticulously select sites and varieties renowned for their excellence. Join us on a journey through the Great Southern as we explore each of its unique regions.

They have a long list of awards such as winning the International Rose Competition. Not to mention outstanding scores from the likes of Wine Companion & Ray Jordan.

We can order in a Singlefile Wine we don’t stock, email us at info@partnersinwine.com.au

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.