2003 Petaluma Hanlin Hill Riesling

The past three vintages in the Clare Valley have provided a meteorological see-saw, with 2001 being the hottest vintage on record, then 2002 the coolest on record, followed by 2003 which was a warm to hot vintage. In 2003 the Hanlin Hill Vineyard was harvested a week earlier than normal because of the hot beginning to the season, but the cool ripening conditions of the latter half of the season ensured natural acid retention and aromatic Riesling flavour development. Handpicked from 30 year old Riesling vines, yields were below average for the 2003 vintage. Very pale straw colour with distinctive green hue. Superb lifted aromatic nose of lime, orange blossom and ripe pear. The palate displays flavours of lemon and lime with the lime being dominant followed by a ripe pear background. The flavour profile is not quite as concentrated as that of the 2002. The acidity is quite crisp giving the wine a flinty edge. Aftertaste of lime and spice.
Cellar 3-4 years (2006-2007)
Alc/Vol: 13.0%
RATING: 94/100
VALUE: XXXXX/5