Brash Higgins R/SM Riesling Semillon 2023 is a compelling dry white blend from McLaren Vale’s Blewitt Springs, crafted as a 70% Riesling and 30% Semillon field blend from 1975-planted vines. Picked and co-fermented wild in old French barriques with a couple of days on skins, it delivers crystalline citrus energy from the Riesling, balanced by lemony flesh and savoury depth from the Semillon. The palate shows zippy acidity, a touch of salinity, and textural, almost margarita-like freshness, highlighted by notes of candied lime pith, green apple tarte Tatin, stone fruit kernel, fennel frond, and oyster-shell. Twelve months in seasoned oak and a single steel barrel add depth without heaviness. Halliday Wine Companion awarded the 2023 vintage 95 points for its intensity, textural grip, and savoury, energetic profile. Only 70 dozen bottles made.