Mission Estate Hawke’s Bay Reserve Old Vine Semillon 2018 ($29) 
Paired with Zucchini and Cherry Tomato Nicoise Salad in Canvas Sat Dec 7th 2019
No sooner had I read this recipe, I hurtled to the supermarket to get the ingredients because I had the perfect wine. The Mission Estate Hawke’s Bay Reserve Old Vine Semillon 2018 ($29) is a tad special. Next March, Paul Mooney celebrates his 40th year making wine there, putting him firmly on the ‘history and pedigree shelf. When Paul started in 1979, a vineyard featuring semillon (sem-ee-yon) cuttings from the old Matua Valley property was planted at Mission Estate, and grapes from that block were used to create this, Paul’s 40th vintage wine. Bursting with rich florals, citrus, fresh-cut hay, tropical tautness and a lick of smoke, like Paul, this wine’s in it for the long-haul. It has a gorgeous, caramelised character, brulee notes and even a squeak of cashew – I absolutely love it. Drink now or cellar until 2038 he reckons.
www.missionestate.co.nz
