Episode Two

Back for its second episode, hostess Sally Stanton travels through the hot-climate region of the Hunter Valley to visit the First Families of the area. Journeying through warm coloured vineyards, Stanton sips her way through the many cellar doors that are plotted throughout the Valley. Speaking with the Tyrrell and McWilliam First Families, Stanton tastes their world acknowledged shiraz and semillion varieties. These are what the region are most famous for.

Sitting down with Bruce and son Chris from Tyrrell’s Wines, Stanton learns the rich history of the estate; the first vines planted back in 1858. Tyrrell’s Wines' semillion is their star variety, and also a James Halliday favourite. The 2005 VAT 1 Hunter Valley Semillion has won 34 Trophies, 57 Gold Medals, and is as Chris says, a “freak of a vintage”. James Halliday receives a case each year to enjoy. Bruce also teaches the true pronunciation of 'semillion' which best compliments the warmth and generosity of its character.

McWilliam’s Wines are the next visit. Scott and Jeff McWilliam not only share the stand-out varieties of the winery, but also its interesting history involving a fusion with the vineyard next door, Mount Pleasant. Their light and citric 2013 Mount Pleasant Lovedale Semillion is enjoyed, as well as their 2014 Mount Pleasant Maurice O’Shea Shiraz, that pays homage to Maurice O’Shea, the original founder of Mount Pleasant.

Watch the full episode here: