2024 Rocky Road Semillon Sauvignon Blanc

Pungent aromatics of guava, lime zest, and honeydew are lifted and vibrant, balanced by subtle cask fermentation notes that add depth and complexity.

Extended maturation on fine lees lends texture and creaminess to the palate, while the natural acidity of the vintage drives a bright, mineral finish. A full-flavoured, balanced, and complex interpretation of a Margaret River classic.

Vineyard: All of the fruit has been sourced from our Calgardup Brooke Vineyard. Situated just inland from the pristine coastline in southern Margaret River, Calgardup Brook Vineyard benefits from the cooling sea breezes of the nearby Indian Ocean. Planted in 1998, the dry-grown vines thrive in ancient sandy, schisty soils, with the vineyard's slightly sloping northern aspect and east-west row orientation enhancing sun exposure and ripening conditions.

Vintage 2024 marked the earliest harvest on record at McHenry Hohnen. A wet winter followed by a warm, dry spring encouraged healthy vine growth and early fruit set. Summer brought consistently dry conditions and high diurnal temperatures, with veraison occurring 2–3 weeks ahead of average.

An exceptional Marri blossom season meant no bird pressure, and with no disease risk, fruit quality was pristine. The white harvest was fast-paced and compressed, resulting in wines with expressive fruit, texture, and freshness—Chardonnay and Marsanne Roussanne stood out.

Red varieties ripened swiftly, with the final pick on 18 March—nearly a month earlier than 2023. Yields were lower, but quality was high, delivering reds with structure, concentration, and vibrancy.

Fruit was picked in the cool hours of the night, whole berry pressed, and transferred to a combination of stainless-steel tanks and large-format oak casks to enhance texture and aromatic complexity. Following fermentation, the individual parcels remained on fine lees throughout winter, adding weight and mouthfeel. The wine was bottled early to preserve freshness and aromatic lift.