Wines Hunter Valley Tempus Two - Uno - 2011

Viniou Reviews

Tempus Two Cuvée Uno 2011 is a dry white wine from the Hunter Valley, one of New South Wales’s most storied wine regions. While the precise grape blend of this cuvée isn’t specified, Hunter Valley whites are often crafted from Semillon or Chardonnay, sometimes with a touch of Verdelho or other local varieties. The 2011 vintage in this region is notable for its early season warmth, which helped grapes to reach ripeness while still retaining the freshness characteristic of Hunter wines. Expect a wine with a pale, straw-yellow hue, offering subtle citrus, white peach, and perhaps a hint of delicate floral notes on the nose. The palate is likely to be refreshing and dry, with a backbone of lively acidity and a clean mineral finish, reflecting judicious winemaking and careful handling of the fruit.

The Hunter Valley boasts a rich viticultural history, being one of Australia’s oldest wine-growing areas, first planted in the early 19th century. The region’s proximity to the coast bestows it with a warm, humid climate, moderated by cooling breezes and frequent morning mists. Its sandy alluvial flats and volcanic hill soils are particularly suited to white grape varieties, especially Semillon, which thrives here. Over the years, the Hunter has built a reputation for producing whites of remarkable elegance, subtlety, and potential for ageing.

Tempus Two Cuvée Uno’s crisp profile lends itself exceptionally well to food. For a regional pairing, consider Sydney rock oysters or lightly seared king prawns with lemon. The wine’s freshness also works wonders with sushi, creamy goat’s cheese, or grilled fish such as barramundi. For a heartier match, try it with chicken cooked in lemon and herbs or a simple risotto primavera.

To appreciate its aromatic finesse and lively structure, serve this wine chilled at 8-10°C. Enjoy it in a tulip-shaped glass to focus its delicate bouquet. If you have the patience, cellaring for another couple of years could further develop its complexity, but it is already drinking beautifully now.