Brokenwood Semillon

On ground that was once intended as a cricket pitch was instead planted with Shiraz and Cabernet and has gone on to become one of Australia’s most reputable wine labels. This is Brokenhead from the Hunter Valley and among their iconic wines is their bloody good Brokenwood Semillon.

Established in 1970 by three Sydney solicitors, one of which was none other than James Halliday, who took their wine hobby to the next level by purchasing a 10-acre block in Pokolbin for a record $970 per acre.

The first vintage was harvested in 1973, transported to the winery in the back of a Bentley, and despite having a lack of actual winemaking qualifications or training knocked out 75 dozen of a Shiraz Cabernet that was well received. By the late 70s Halliday had taken up judging wine professionally, new partners joined the venture and the rest as they say is history.

Wind the clock forward and in 2026 Brokenwood is named as the Halliday Wine Companion “Winery of the Year”. Their motto remains today how it all started back in the 70s – “Enjoy great wine and have fun”.

“A pitch-perfect, classic style with pure lemon and scented quince nestled within a gently expansive palate. Bright and refreshing, it has excellent flavour and flow with a strong presence through to the finish. A highly satisfying wine from this ever-dependable label.“

91/100 & Top Value Award (Stuart Knox, The Real Review)
“Virtually water white. Green apple, lime zest and snow pea shoot aromas. Bright and fresh with a hint of sweetness softening racy acidity…An approachable young semillon”

Gold Medal (Hunter Valley Wine Show 2025)
Gold Medal (Winewise Championship 2026)
Gold Medal (Royal Adelaide Wine Show 2025)
Gold Medal (National Wine Show of Australia 2026)

As for the best wine & food match with a classic Aussie Semillon? Well just like a classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc it simply has to be freshly shucked oysters of course!