Vasse Felix, Filius Sauvignon Blanc Semillon, Margaret River, Western Australia 2023

A blend of 71% Sauvignon Blanc and 29% Semillon, which sees plenty of savoury character on both nose and palate, and delivers waves of pleasure. The winemaker’s tool kit includes skin contact, oak and stainless steel fermentation and ageing, plus wild and inoculated yeast. Think preserved lemon, lime pith, crushed wet chalk, dried sage leaves and some groove-worthy cheesecloth, followed by just-ripe guava and beeswax on the palate. The texture plays a starring role behind the rather suave veneer. Made for sandy summer beach drinking.