Wines Hunter Valley Tempus Two - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Tempus Two 2022 from the Hunter Valley is a vibrant white wine that beautifully reflects the characteristics of its origin. Typically, Hunter Valley whites are made from Chardonnay or the region’s iconic Semillon grape. In the hands of a modern estate like Tempus Two, a dry white from 2022 expresses youthful freshness, crisp acidity, and lively fruit. The vintage itself benefited from balanced weather conditions, resulting in wines with expressive aromatics and refined structure. The vinification usually leans towards temperature-controlled stainless steel fermentation to preserve delicate fruit notes and the wine’s hallmark brightness. Expect fragrant aromas of lime, green apple, and citrus blossom, supported by a palate of zesty lemon and a hint of minerality, hallmark traits of this classic, dry Hunter white.

The Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s oldest and most respected wine regions, nestled in New South Wales, just north of Sydney. Its unique subtropical climate features warm days offset by cooling afternoon sea breezes and ample humidity, conditions that—combined with sandy-loam or red volcanic soils—enable long ripening and preserve acidity. This terroir favours fresh, elegant styles, with Semillon achieving global renown for its age-worthiness and restrained alcohol. The region’s viticultural heritage dates back to the early 19th century, with a tradition of producing some of the country’s most distinctive and cellar-worthy whites.

For food pairings, this zesty Hunter Valley dry white excels with a range of delicate dishes. Enjoy it alongside freshly shucked oysters, seared scallops, or light tempura. Its crisp acidity is a natural match for grilled fish or lemon-garlic prawns, and it also complements Asian-inspired cuisine such as Thai chicken salads or sushi. To embrace local traditions, pair with an Australian prawn cocktail or salt-and-pepper squid.

Serve this wine well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C, to highlight its freshness and vibrant acidity. Allow the wine a few moments in the glass to reveal its aromatic complexity, and enjoy it within a few years of the vintage for maximum vibrancy and charm.