91 points from Robert Parker: “At age 12, the 1998 Semillon Livermore (a blend of 75% Semillon and 25% Sauvignon Blanc) exhibits waxy honeysuckle, Chartreuse liqueur and a slightly herbal component in its medium to full-bodied, concentrated personality. Impressive in a singular style, I suspect it is a “love it or leave it” wine (as most Semillons tend to be), but this white wine remains remarkably youthful at age 12.” (Feb. 2011) The grape source is the Wente Estate Vineyard located near Livermore. The vines were planted in the 1880s from the original Chateau d’Yquem cuttings brought to this region by Charles Wetmore. The potential of the Semillon grape to produce superior dry white wine has not been realized in California due to the proclivity of this variety to overproduce when grown on all but the poorest soil types. The combination of ninety year old vines, and the perfect soil and climate for this variety, insures a wine of substantial depth, complexity and style. Whoa. Success!
