The source for the O.C. Semillon is low-yielding Oakey Creek (O.C.) Vineyard in southern-central Pokolbin, planted in 1998 on sandy/loam soils. After many years making ripe and generous Semillon from this site, Andrew Thomas realised this patch of shallow dirt was far more suited to creating a more classic Hunter Valley Semillon style. He has not looked back.
Stylistically, Andrew sees the O.C. as having the purest and most precise expression with a bright, long line of acidity. True to form, the ’25 bolts straight out the gate with waves of tangy citrus, lemongrass and subtle dried ginger notes, all underscored by that steely, wet river stone quality that Thomas eeks out with his modest, earth-to-glass winemaking. It’s just cracking value: starbright and vibrant and ready for the table.