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Riesling
One of the world's great grape varieties and the acknowledged king of German vineyards, also important in Alsace, Riesling goes through a number of ripening phases making it incredibly varied. Picked early it can form a base wine for Methode Champenoise; a little later, it makes a wonderfully crisp, aromatic lemon-lime filled dry white. A little riper the grapes produce an excellent, slightly sweet 'Spatlese' wine, later again an 'Auslese', and so on. In Australia, crisp, minerally, citrus-led styles dominate, with regions like South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia producing the finest examples. Fish, shellfish and crustaceans are perfect partners. Browse our top rated Riesling wines here.
![2023 Kilikanoon Mort’s Block Watervale Riesling]()
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2023 Kilikanoon Mort’s Block Watervale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinLocated right beside the winery, Mort’s Block vineyard provides the core for this wine, with fruit from Kilikanoon’s Morrison vineyard on the opposite hillside providing additional depth and complexity.
A brilliant water like core is surrounded by a subtle greenish tinge to the edges. Jumping from the glass are lime and citrus aromas followed by hints of orange rind, chalky talc and minerals. Concentrated lime and lemon fruits drive the mouth watering palate which has a steely spine of crisp acidity running through it. Granny Smith apple, orange rind, wet steel and flinty mineral elements lurk underneath. Dry and taut it finishes long and zippy.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 11.5%![2024 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Riesling]()
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Leeuwin Estate Art Series RieslingMargaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like colour with a faint tinge of green around the edges. Pronounced lime juice and green apple scents are trailed by some lemon, wet steel and chalky mineral notes. Tense, mouth watering lime, Granny Smith apple and lemon flavours meld into a chalky back drop of wet steel and minerals. Finishes very dry with crisp acidity and a zesty, lime driven conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews….
Leeuwin Estate Riesling, I feel, is much improved of the past few years, and the wines are brighter with notably better texture.
This has perfume lime and lemon, lemongrass, mint and a little spice. It’s juicy and bright, all citrus and green apple, and the texture is gently chalky, offering a finish of excellent length with a lime and tonic aftertaste. Lots of crunch and interest. It’s very good. Drink 2024-2030.
92 Points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front![2023 Liz Heidenreich Watervale Riesling]()
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2023 Liz Heidenreich Watervale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2030-2032)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like core with greenish tinged edges. Jumping out of the glass are aromas of lime and lemon which are followed by some Granny Smith apple, wet steel, chalky talc and mineral notes. The tight and focused palate sees lemon and lime flavours sculpted by steely mineral infused acidity which provides a chiselled feel. Chalky elements linger underneath. Finishes very dry, taut and crisp with a flinty mineral laced aftertaste.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews…..
This is an attractive riesling, good concentration, limey drive, faint flinty mineral characters, floral lift and a sense of precision and length. It offers up high refreshment factor with layers of flavour, texture and character. Good energy here, with great varietal and regional character. Geez, this ticks a lot of boxes, including value. Very well done. Drink by 2033.
93 Points
Mike Bennie – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion![2023 Lonely Vineyard Riesling]()
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Lonely Vineyard RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant pale straw colour with highlights of green around the edges and a watery hue. Distinct lime juice top notes mix with Granny Smith apple, lemon, wet steel, orange rind and chalky mineral like scents. Crunchy lime, lemon and orange rind flavours meld into a wet steel and chalky mineral back drop. Crisp acidity brings tension. Finishes dry, long and focused.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.5%![2023 Dr Loosen Bros Dr L Dry Riesling]()
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2023 Dr Loosen Bros Dr L Dry RieslingMosel, GERMANYReduced from $24.99$21. 99Bottle$263.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinDr. Loosen has been in the same family for over 200 years, and this is the estate's classic, regional expression of the Riesling grape. Located in far western Germany, the Mosel valley’s steep, south facing slopes create the perfect climate for Riesling, giving the vines ideal exposure to the sun. The cool climate allows the grapes to ripen slowly while retaining bright acidity. This crisp, refreshing Riesling represents the jumping-in point from Dr. Loosen, capturing the elegant and racy characteristics of steep, slate-soil Mosel vineyards.
Brilliant very pale straw almost water like colour with a greenish tint around the edges. Elevated lime and red apple scents mix with hints of mandarin, orange blossom and flinty mineral notes. Intense juicy lime, red apple and mandarin fruits race across the crunchy fresh palate with notions of honeysuckle and flinty mineral characters lining the back half. Finishes dry with crisp acidity and a long zingy aftertaste.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12%![2023 Mac Forbes Riesling]()
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2023 Mac Forbes RieslingStrathbogie Ranges, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$33. 99Bottle$407.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 11%Closure: StelvinA light, zingy dry to off dry Riesling that has zesty acidity and an elegant finish.
Brilliant pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Delightfully aromatic the nose offers up red apple, pear, lime and honeysuckle scents followed by a whiff of orange blossom and some delicate mineral notes. Light and zingy across the palate, lime, red apple and subtle honeysuckle flavours are underscored by zesty acidity. Orange blossom infusions and flinty mineral elements are also evident. Finishes dry to off dry with an elegant and invigorating aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 11%Other Reviews…..
From a vineyard planted in 2005. Matured in a combination of stainless steel and small and large oak; 3g/L RS. A light, bright green gold. Mac's always had a great feel for riesling and this is another goodun' in a long line. White flowers, gentle Meyer lemon and orange blossom lead onto the palate, where the fruit is beautifully balanced by the wine's zesty acidity. Drink now and over the next 10 years. Drink by 2029.
95 Points
Philip Rich – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion![2024 Mad Fish Riesling]()
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Mad Fish RieslingWestern Australia, AUSTRALIA$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinZesty lime, lemon and mandarin fruits over a slatey mineral back drop.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a faint greenish tinge around the edges and a watery hue. Aromas of lime and green apple skin are followed by some lemon juice, mandarin and subtle orange blossom notes. Zesty lime, lemon and mandarin fruits overlay a slatey mineral back drop. Crisp acidity finishing dry and crunchy.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12%![2022 Mader Riesling Dry]()
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2022 Mader Riesling DryAlsace, FRANCE$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinCertified organic. Includes almost 10% de-classified Grand Cru fruit from vines around 30 years old. Brilliant pale straw colour with a glimmer of green around the edges and a watery hue. Elevated lime and green apple skin aromas intermix with wet slate, a faint whiff of honeysuckle and flinty mineral end notes. Delicious lime and red apple fruits are cast above a subtle honeysuckle, pear and slatey mineral back drop. Finishes dry with zippy acidity and a long flint infused aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13%![2022 Mader Rosacker Grand Cru Riesling]()
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2022 Mader Rosacker Grand Cru RieslingAlsace, FRANCE$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 14%Closure: StelvinThe Mader domaine, a small family-owned winery, is located in the picturesque village of Hunawihr, near Ribeauvillé. They own over 10 hectares of vineyards, including prized Grand Cru sites in Rosacker and Schlossberg. Jérôme Mader took over in 2005 and converted the vineyards to organic viticulture, gaining certification in 2007.
The 2022 vintage at Rosacker, from vines aged 43 to 68 years near the top of the vineyard, was warm but delivered surprising freshness. With a low yield of just 35 hl/ha, the wine exhibits great intensity, finesse, and structure, featuring rich, intense citrus fruit, mineral notes, and outstanding length.
Alc 14%![2019 Max Ferdinand Richter Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese (375ml)]()
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2019 Max Ferdinand Richter Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese (375ml)Mosel, GERMANY$940. 00Bottle$11280.00 DozenABV: 6.5%Closure: CorkWeingut Max Ferdinand Richter produces world-class Rieslings from some of the most esteemed vineyards in the Mosel, and all production comes from estate holdings. The terroir of their steep vineyard sites is generally grey slate with different compositions of ferruginous (Brauneberg), mineral quartz (Veldenz) or clay (Graach, Wehlen, Mülheim) soils; those deeply influence character and flavour of the wines. In order to reduce quantity and increase concentration, pruning is severe and in prolific years a green harvest is carried out in August. The vintage is picked much later than that of most growers and is done entirely by hand. Three passes are done to select the best qualities to eliminate all inferior grapes and to keep perfect botrytis bunches or single berries for Auslese qualities and above. The same attention is paid to all vines from the QBAs on up through the Eisweins.
Other Reviews....
Based on single berries affected by an early botrytis, the raisin selection of the three-starred Auslese is the 2019 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese. Intense, very precise and spicy on the nose, the 2019 displays concentrated peach, almond and biscuit as well as lemon chutney, tea and ginger aromas. Silky, refined and highly delicate on the palate, this is a super precise and elegant TBA with great precision, finesse and salinity. The sweetness is certainly palatable but balanced by the clarity, precision, finesse and seamless texture of this crystalline and stimulating TBA that is extremely hard not to score 100 points. Maybe later, after some years of bottle aging? This wine has all the potential to become a legend. Bottled with roughly 400 grams of acidity, 6.5% alcohol and high acidity that was at 16 grams per liter in the must stage. 70 liters produced. Drink 2035 - 2100.
99+ points
Stephan Reinhardt - Wine Advocate (Oct 2020)This is packed with dried-fruit aromas, ranging from pineapple to dates and figs, but it remains finely nuanced, rather than drifting off into opulence and density. With aeration, some ceps/porcini character appears, too. A super elegant wine, in spite of the enormous concentration and the sweetness that comes with it. The playful, filigree finish makes it really stand out in this category. Drink or hold.
98 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.comThe 2019er Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese was made from fully-botrytized fruit picked at 210° Oechsle, and was fermented down to fully noble-sweet levels of residual sugar. It offers a hugely exotic nose made of baked pineapple, coconut, mango, starfruit, almond cream, dried fruits, and honeyed elements. The wine is hugely sweet and unctuous on the palate, where a whiff of volatile acidity adds pep to the structure. The finish is long and alluring, but also marked by a touch of volatile acidity at this early stage. This superb TBA may eventually exceed our high ratings, especially as the volatile elements withdraw into the background. What an impressive effort! Drink 2029-2069.
96+ points
Jean Fisch & David Rayer - Mosel Fine Wines![2019 Max Ferdinand Richter Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese (375ml)]()
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2019 Max Ferdinand Richter Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese (375ml)Mosel, GERMANY$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 7%Closure: CorkWeingut Max Ferdinand Richter produces world-class Rieslings from some of the most esteemed vineyards in the Mosel, and all production comes from estate holdings. The terroir of their steep vineyard sites is generally grey slate with different compositions of ferruginous (Brauneberg), mineral quartz (Veldenz) or clay (Graach, Wehlen, Mülheim) soils; those deeply influence character and flavour of the wines. In order to reduce quantity and increase concentration, pruning is severe and in prolific years a green harvest is carried out in August. The vintage is picked much later than that of most growers and is done entirely by hand. Three passes are done to select the best qualities to eliminate all inferior grapes and to keep perfect botrytis bunches or single berries for Auslese qualities and above. The same attention is paid to all vines from the QBAs on up through the Eisweins.
Other Reviews....
From the overripe and botrytized berries of the Spätlese selection, the 2019 Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese is intense and concentrated on the nose, but due to the sulfuric notes, it is far from being as terroir-driven as the Spätlese or even the Kabinett. The fruit is concentrated yet piquant, fresh and elegant on the palate and pure, refined and subtle on the finish due to the crystalline acidity and finesse that represents the JSU. This is an excellent Spätlese that needs at least a decade to age to its full finesse. Tasted at the domain in September 2020. Drink 2035 - 2070.
95+ points
Stephan Reinhardt - Wine Advocate (Oct 2020)Plenty of exotic-fruit character from botrytis, but they haven’t made this refined Auslese loud, only more complex and tantalizing. Considerable concentration, but everything fits together so neatly that it comes off as restrained. Very complex, almost dry finish with a hint of vanilla pod. Delicious now, but so much aging potential. Drink or hold.
96 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.comThe 2019er Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Auslese was made from partially botrytized fruit (1/3) picked at 115° Oechsle, and was fermented down to noble-sweet levels of residual sugar (125 g/l). It offers a gorgeous nose made of elderflower, cassis, white peach, coconut, almond paste, fresh pineapple, and loads of citrusy and minty elements. The wine proves stunningly tactile and subtle on the palate, where delicately creamy fruits mingle with ripe yet gorgeously juicy acidity. The finish is all about bright exotic fruits, citrusy elements, and fine notes of cream. This gorgeous sweet wine may seem almost irresistible now, but it will gain from a decade of aging as the sweetness will have receded and given way to more nuances. Drink 2029-2049.
95 points
Jean Fisch & David Rayer - Mosel Fine Wines![2019 Max Ferdinand Richter Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Spatlese]()
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2019 Max Ferdinand Richter Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling SpatleseMosel, GERMANY$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 7.5%Closure: StelvinWeingut Max Ferdinand Richter produces world-class Rieslings from some of the most esteemed vineyards in the Mosel, and all production comes from estate holdings. The terroir of their steep vineyard sites is generally grey slate with different compositions of ferruginous (Brauneberg), mineral quartz (Veldenz) or clay (Graach, Wehlen, Mülheim) soils; those deeply influence character and flavour of the wines. In order to reduce quantity and increase concentration, pruning is severe and in prolific years a green harvest is carried out in August. The vintage is picked much later than that of most growers and is done entirely by hand. Three passes are done to select the best qualities to eliminate all inferior grapes and to keep perfect botrytis bunches or single berries for Auslese qualities and above. The same attention is paid to all vines from the QBAs on up through the Eisweins.
Other Reviews....
The 2019 Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese is fascinatingly pure, bright, refined and flinty on the nose that reveals very fine Riesling, slate and iron aromas. Pure, fresh and filigreed on the palate, this is a crystalline, fresh and piquant, crisp and crystalline JSU Spätlese in the acidity-accentuated MFR style. The finish is pure and salty, piquant and concise and makes this an exciting wine to try again in 20 years. Tasted at the domain in September 2020. Drink 2040 - 2070.
95 points
Stephan Reinhardt - Wine Advocate (Oct 2020)I love the beautifully ripe but delicate yellow-fruit aromas of this Spätlese, ranging from mirabelle to peach and just a hint of honeysuckle. A noble wine that remains restrained and slowly reveals its treasures to the patient. Discreet grape sweetness adds a touch of creaminess to the mid-palate, but the very mineral finish is totally clean. Drink or hold.
95 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.comThe 2019er Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese was harvested at 91° Oechsle, and was fermented down to sweet levels of residual sugar (79 g/l). It offers a deep and complex nose of smoke, tangerine, candied orange, apricot flower, a hint of mango, and honeyed peach. The wine is compact and still on the sweet side on the palate, but already more than hints at huge depth and great juiciness wrapped into a magnificently ripe sense of acidity in the finish. The after-taste also shows some of the freshness and lightness to come. The only thing this superb sweet Riesling now needs is patience. What a stunner in the making! Drink 2029-2069.
96 points
Jean Fisch & David Rayer - Mosel Fine Wines![2019 Max Ferdinand Richter Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spatlese]()
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2019 Max Ferdinand Richter Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling SpatleseMosel, GERMANY$74. 99Bottle$899.88 DozenABV: 8%Closure: StelvinWeingut Max Ferdinand Richter produces world-class Rieslings from some of the most esteemed vineyards in the Mosel, and all production comes from estate holdings. The terroir of their steep vineyard sites is generally grey slate with different compositions of ferruginous (Brauneberg), mineral quartz (Veldenz) or clay (Graach, Wehlen, Mülheim) soils; those deeply influence character and flavour of the wines. In order to reduce quantity and increase concentration, pruning is severe and in prolific years a green harvest is carried out in August. The vintage is picked much later than that of most growers and is done entirely by hand. Three passes are done to select the best qualities to eliminate all inferior grapes and to keep perfect botrytis bunches or single berries for Auslese qualities and above. The same attention is paid to all vines from the QBAs on up through the Eisweins.
Other Reviews....
From 80- to 90+-year-old vines in the original plot below the sundial, the 2019 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese is very precise and fresh on the flinty, slatey and crisp fruit bouquet. Juicy-piquant and sweet on the palate, this is a tight and crispy, very intense yet still sulfuric Spätlese from a really great terroir. The fruit is still fresh and precise and was picked together with the dry GG selection, which is picked from the inner part with a higher acidity, whereas the Spätlese is from the outside berries that have more ripeness. The 2019 should be aged for at least 10 years. Tasted at the domain in September 2020. Drink 2030 - 2070.
95+ points
Stephan Reinhardt - Wine Advocate (Oct 2020)The white-peach and citrus aromas with a touch of spring blossoms pour from the glass of this classic Mosel Spätlese that has a great interplay of ripeness and cool elements on the palate, leading into a very filigree finish that’s pristine and full of herbal freshness. Drink or hold.
95 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.comThe 2019er Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese was made from fruit picked at 95° Oechsle, and was fermented down to almost noble-sweet levels of residual sugar (95 g/l). It offers a hugely aromatic and creamy nose made of pineapple, honey, apricot blossom, almond, grapefruit, and floral elements. The wine develops the creamy side of a refined Auslese on the palate and leaves an intense feel of whipped cream, apricot, honey, and fine floral and herbal elements in the engaging and nicely racy finish. This sweet wine will please lovers of suave yet light-footed and engaging expression of the genre, but needs more than a decade to reach its drinking window. Drink 2034-2049.
92 points
Jean Fisch & David Rayer - Mosel Fine Wines![44805572_1.jpg]()
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2018 Max Ferdinand Richter Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese (375ml)Mosel, GERMANY$680. 00Bottle$8160.00 DozenABV: 6%Closure: CorkWeingut Max Ferdinand Richter produces world-class Rieslings from some of the most esteemed vineyards in the Mosel, and all production comes from estate holdings. The terroir of their steep vineyard sites is generally grey slate with different compositions of ferruginous (Brauneberg), mineral quartz (Veldenz) or clay (Graach, Wehlen, Mülheim) soils; those deeply influence character and flavour of the wines. In order to reduce quantity and increase concentration, pruning is severe and in prolific years a green harvest is carried out in August. The vintage is picked much later than that of most growers and is done entirely by hand. Three passes are done to select the best qualities to eliminate all inferior grapes and to keep perfect botrytis bunches or single berries for Auslese qualities and above. The same attention is paid to all vines from the QBAs on up through the Eisweins.
Other Reviews....
Sourced in all the sections of the cru and picked with 270° Oechsle and perfect botrytis, the yellow-golden 2018 Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese is deep, intense and refreshingly spicy and mineral on the compact and complex lime-zesty nose that reminds me of stewed apricots and sweet fig mustard with lemon zests. Incredibly rich, round and viscous but also finessed, fresh and vital on the palate, this is a highly elegant and perfectly balanced TBA with a long, intense and even stimulatingly vital finish. Compared to the filigreed, more crystalline Wehlener Sonnenuhr sibling, this is far more rich and oily textured, yet I can't avoid taking a large sip again and again, hedonist that I am! Thanks to the lower acidity, this is a smooth and sweet but still fine and delicate TBA that tastes fruity, fresh and highly digestible even at this early stage. All the components are already perfectly interwoven, and it's just a question of personal taste if you prefer to have this TBA sweet and smooth or matured and smooth. It's a marvelous wine in any case. It took a long ferment, until the end of June this year, which might have added a bit more complexity compared to the Wehlener Sonnenuhr. Tasted at the end of July and again in later August 2019 when the wine had already closed. Drink 2020 - 2090.
96-98 points
Stephan Reinhardt - Wine Advocate (Aug 2019)The 2018er Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Riesling TBA was harvested at 260° Oechsle and was fermented down to noble-sweet levels of residual sugar. A whiff of volatile acidity quickly gives way to stunning elements of brown sugar, mango, candied pineapple, bitter lemon, raisin and cream. The wine is smooth yet stunningly multi-layered on the palate and leaves a gorgeously smooth yet precise feel of dried fruits and herbs in the long and juicy finish. The saturating sweetness in the finish still needs to integrate. It could then easily exceed our already very high expectations. Drink 2038-2068.
97+ points
Jean Fisch & David Rayer - Mosel Fine Wines![2024 Mesh Riesling]()
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2024 Mesh RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinSearing lime, lemon and Granny Smith apple fruits sculptured by crisp steely acidity.
Mesh is a joint venture between two of Australia’s leading exponents of Riesling, Clare Valley’s Jeffrey Grosset and Eden Valley’s Robert Hill-Smith.
Brilliant water like core with highlights of green around the edges. Intense lime, citrus and orange rind aromas leap from the glass followed by some distinct talc, green apple and chalky mineral notes. Searing lime, lemon and Granny Smith apple fruits carry a tense feel, sculptured by crisp steely acidity. Also making an appearance are notions of orange rind and flinty mineral elements. Finishes very dry, snappy and focused.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 11.5%Other Reviews….
Light straw in the glass with bright aromas of freshly squeezed lime, green apple and grapefruit with hints of Christmas lily, frangipani, crushed stone, almond paste, makrut lime, lemongrass and lime zest. Dry and stony-savoury in its palate travel with minerally energy to burn and a real vitality and precision to its passage. Finishes long and limey. Drink by 2038.
95 Points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion![2023 Ministry of Clouds Riesling]()
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2023 Ministry of Clouds RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinAfter almost three decades of shared experience in the wine industry, Bernice Ong and Julian Forwood decided to have a crack at their own venture sourcing fruit mainly from high quality vineyards in McLaren Vale to produce wines under their Ministry of Clouds label. Further broadening their portfolio they also added other varieties including Riesling from the Clare Valley.
2023 was the third year in a row to experience a cool growing season in the Clare Valley resulting in intensely flavoured Rieslings with healthy natural acidity and exceptional length. 93% of the grapes were sourced from the terrarossa/ red loam laid over limestone of the renowned Watervale subregion often referred to as "The Golden Mile", with picking times staggered to retain natural acidity. The balance was sourced from the lean, hungry and rocky soils characteristic of the cooler and later ripening hills of Penwortham.
A glorious explosion of scrumptious lime and citrus fruit.
Surrounding the brilliant water like core are distinct highlights of green. Intense aromas of lime, citrus and orange rind soar out the glass combining with talc, green apple and chalky mineral notes along the way. The explosive, super scrumptious palate sees lime and citrus fruits burst across it with terrific force, concentration and textural volume. Green apple, orange rind, chalky talc and flinty mineral characters ensue. Juicy, mouth watering acidity finishing exceptionally long, pure and crunchy.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews….
Watervale and Penwortham. I sat down to taste these wines with co-winemaker Julian Forwood, and I said, this smells of lavender, and he was quite happy about that.
Pretty, perfumed, lavender, and pink grapefruit, lime. Juicy, firm powdery texture, pure and long, with a cinch of refreshing tonic bitterness. The mouth-feel of it is excellent, but not at the expense of purity and classic expression of Clare Riesling. Top shelf. Drink 2023-2033+
95 points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front![2023 Miss Zilm Watervale Riesling]()
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2023 Miss Zilm Watervale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 11%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like core with a distinct greenish tinge to the edges. Lime, citrus and orange aromas jump out of the glass followed by some talc and steely mineral notes. Scrumptious lime and lemon fruits possess both textural volume and concentration with orange rind, talc and subtle steely mineral elements lying underneath. Crisp acidity finishing dry, long and mouth watering.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 11%![2024 Mr Riggs Watervale Riesling]()
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2024 Mr Riggs Watervale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinWatervale in the Clare Valley is home to some of Australia’s best’s Rieslings. It’s here that Ben Riggs sources fruit from the Brysky vineyards to produce this zesty lemon lime filled Riesling.
Brilliant very pale straw almost water like colour with a subtle greenish tinge to the outskirts. Lime, citrus and orange rind scents jump out of the glass followed by some chalky talc and mineral notes. Scintillating lime, lemon and green apple fruits are delivered with terrific drive, intensity and focus. Orange rind, chalky talc and steely mineral characteristics also chime in. Crisp laser like acidity finishing long, tense and mouth watering.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12%![2023 Neldner Road by Dave Powell Steinert Riesling]()
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2023 Neldner Road by Dave Powell Steinert RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: StelvinSourced from a single five-acre vineyard in Flaxman’s Valley at 480 metres elevation, this Eden Valley Riesling is a true expression of place. Planted over 80 years ago by the Steinert family, the dry-grown, rod and spur-pruned vines produce fruit of exceptional character. Hand-picked, whole-bunch pressed and fermented dry with minimal handling, delivering a pure and expressive reflection of its historic site.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews....
The 2023 Riesling Steinert is a little unusual in style thanks to a later pick, but I like where this is headed in a genuinely flavorsome style with hearty aromas of pear and citrus. Richly textured with ripe, crisp acidity, appreciable flavor and balanced phenolics, this has some quite serious personality that holds over a lingering finish. Drink 2025 - 2032.
92 Points
Angus Hughson - Antonio Galloni's VinousThe 2023 Steinert Riesling leads with white pineapple and saline, crushed rocks and straw. The wine is gently floral without being overt, and it has a mineral seam of crushed quartz and sand. Pretty. The mid-palate is spicy and taut, with a width through the finish that adds complexity and density to the fruit. Really smart. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2024 - 2038.
93 Points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate![2024 Nick O’Leary Riesling]()
- 95
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2024 Nick O’Leary RieslingCanberra, Australian Capital Territory, AUSTRALIA$26. 99Bottle$323.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinA scrumptious, intensely flavoured Riesling.
Brilliant water like core with highlights of green around the outskirts. Lime juice and green apple scents jump out of the glass followed by some lemon, chalky talc and steely mineral notes. Zippy lime, lemon and Granny Smith apple fruits are delivered with terrific intensity over a wet steel and chalky mineral back drop. Superb drive with crunchy acidity leading into a long scrumptious finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews….
Too easy to kick back and relax with this juicy and tangy drink. It’s lightly aromatic with lemon blossom and beeswax, plenty of citrus flavour, aniseed and a touch of ginger, yet a gentle offering. Plenty of fine acidity caressing the palate with some sweetness rounding it out.
95 Points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion![2024 O’Leary Walker Watervale Riesling]()
- 96
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2024 O’Leary Walker Watervale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinO’Leary Walker’s Watervale vineyard has classic Watervale soils - red loam over limestone with a westerly aspect. The limestone allows the soil to retain moisture, which assists the wine throughout periods of warm weather, almost drought-proofing in the summer months.
It’s harvested a few weeks before the Polish Hill River vineyard.
Brilliant water like core with vibrant highlights of green around the edges. Jumping out of the glass are intense lime, citrus and orange rind scents which are trailed by talc, wet steel and mineral notes. Crunchy lemon and lime fruits are backed by shimmering acidity with some Granny Smith apple, wet steel, chalky talc and flinty mineral elements lingering across the back half. Tense and concentrated with a punchy feel it finishes crisp, long and flinty.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 11.5%Other Reviews….
From a pair of Clare Riesling masters, comes a masterful pair of Clare Rieslings. This Watervale Riesling is simply superb. A very pale yellow, we have notes of grapefruits, talc, spices and florals with a minerally background. A wine of finesse, bright acidity, balance and great length. A scintillating Riesling with focus, this will be a joy any time over the next twelve to fifteen years. Early reports suggest that 2024 will be a thrilling vintage, as good – in its own way – as ‘21 and ‘22. A cracking Clare Riesling and what value it is. Drink 2024-2039.
96 points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.comSo fine, so silky, so effortless in delivery with aromatics that define what Watervale Riesling is all about. Watervale can be perceived as quiet. It is, in fact, beautifully subtle, detailed in style. Aromas of lime, lemongrass, kaffir lime with just a touch of ginger nicely define the sub-regional – and regional – style. The palate boasts a long line of flavour, super intense in lime, with herbals, fennel and ginger. Texturally, it’s supple. Acidity-wise, it is lemony bright and the mainstay of the wine, but don’t read into this that it is hard-edged. It’s not. Great length makes the flavour last. This is a fully formed young Riesling, ready to fly. Drink 2024-2032.
95 points
Jeni Port – WinePilot.comAlways the prettier of the two O'Leary Walker Rieslings I find, this 2024 Watervale hits a home run once again. It's simply a high-quality glass of happiness. Pretty and zesty, this is a most enjoyable release. Pretty white field flowers and bath salts always feature and this 2024 is no different. Lemon juice, lime leaf and lime zest, there is a fine ribbon of quartz minerality tucked in behind. It leaves a vibrant trail highlighted by a sherbety tang. Devine. Beautiful drinking. Drink this while it's fresh on those hot summer days.
95 points
Qwine Reviews![2024 O’Leary Walker Polish Hill River Riesling]()
- 96
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2024 O’Leary Walker Polish Hill River RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$23. 99Bottle$287.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinFruit for this superb Polish Hill River Riesling is sourced from Martin and Joan Smith as well as Molloy's vineyards which are virtually located next to each other. Despite growing these vines organically since their planting in the 1970’s, 2010 marked the first year of NASAA Organic Certification. Both vineyards consistently produce top quality fruit which highlights the excellence of this Clare Valley sub-region.
Scintillating Polish Hill River Riesling.
Brilliant water like colour with a distinct greenish tinge around the outskirts. Soaring out of the glass are potent aromas of lime and citrus which are trailed by some green apple, chalky talc, wet steel and mineral notes. Showing greater textural volume across the palate than the Watervale, mouth watering lime and lemon fruits infused with wet steel and mineral elements carry a highly energised feel with searing acidity cutting it’s way through the wine’s core. Powerful yet tense and tightly wound, green apple and flinty slate like characters persist long through the sculptured, zippy finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews…..
The twin to the Watervale, this Polish Hill River Riesling, from the same stellar vintage, is spectacular stuff and brilliant buying. Trout stream clear, this is all riverstones, talc, florals, limes, spices, oystershell notes, lemon blossoms and grapefruit pith. Good intensity and a lingering, extremely long, finish, but along the way, impeccable balance and crunchy acidity. A Riesling for the ages. Drink for twenty plus years and grab as much as your cellar can hold. Drink 2024-2044+
97 points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.comThe opposite in personality to Watervale Riesling, Polish Hill is all about Riesling energy and exuberance. Organically grown, for those wondering, Polish Hill arrives all bright and perky but underneath the citrussy exterior there is great concentration of fruit flavour. A drinker could get lost in the depths of that gorgeous middle palate such is the appeal of spiced apple with grapefruit, lemon, lime and citrus zest. Polish Hill offers a mix of spice and citrus all rolled tightly into one super perky, fresh, young Riesling. Another ripper from this top Clare Valley sub-region. Drink 2024-2034.
95 points
Jeni Port – WinePilot.comThis excellent Polish Hill River Riesling from O'Leary Walker is always a consistently high performer. The quality of Riesling in Australia is awesome and you ought to get this label on your radar. Sourced from an organic vineyard, pretty white flowers, musk and lavender, lemon-lime splice isn't far from the dancefloor either. A seductive and detailed minerally vibe ripples through the mid-palate stitching it together. Green apples, apple sours, a whisper of grapefruit and not to mention that glorious citrusy and pithy tang that clutches to a long and fabulous finish, this is classy stuff and I could neck gallons of it. Drink now to embrace its freshness but it will age gracefully if that is your thing.
95 points
Qwine Reviews![2022 O’Leary Walker Doctor's Cut Reserve Riesling]()
- 96
2022 O’Leary Walker Doctor's Cut Reserve RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$42. 99Bottle$515.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like core with greenish toned edges. Intense lime and lemon scents jump out of the glass trailed by some green apple, subtle oily toast like notes and wet steel. Crunchy lime and lemon fruits are tightly coiled by a laser beam of steely mineral infused acidity. Granny Smith apple, delicate kerosene and wet steel characters ensue. Taut and linear in its feel it shows great precision and finishes dry, long and steely.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews….
From a Clare vineyard in the Polish Hill River sub-region, owned by a couple of Adelaide heart surgeons, the guys only make this wine in top vintages. 2022 is most certainly that. This is stunning stuff. A limpid lemon, the nose is all citrus – lemons and limes. Think a handful of fresh kaffir lime leaves. This is backed by spices and wet river stones. Finely balanced, squeaky clean, fresh and with amazing length, this is a brilliant Riesling. Fine, vibrant acidity helps drive the wine. It also has such incredible length and yet the intensity of flavour is maintained for the full journey. Wonderful. This will sail through the next 15 to 20 years in good cellars. Drink 2023-2043.
97 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com![2020 Okonomierat Rebholz Riesling Trocken]()
- 92
- Biodynamic
2020 Okonomierat Rebholz Riesling TrockenPfalz, GERMANY$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenABV: 12%Closure: StelvinOther Reviews....
Extremely fresh with a hint of youthful funk (reduction), but that blows off quickly to reveal crisp pear and lime-zest aromas. Very clean, straight and bright with so much citrus and herbal character at the finish. From biodynamically grown grapes with Respekt certification. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
92 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.com![2020 Okonomierat Rebholz Vom Rotliegenden Riesling Trocken]()
- 95
- Biodynamic
2020 Okonomierat Rebholz Vom Rotliegenden Riesling TrockenPfalz, GERMANY$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenABV: 12%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
Super-mineral with the most delicate, exotic-fruit character. As tight and intense as a laser beam. Enormous brilliance and precision. A lot of GGs don’t reach this level! Stunning crushed-stone finish that’s fresh enough to wake the dead. From biodynamically grown grapes with Respekt certification. Drink or hold.
95 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.com![2020 Okonomierat Rebholz Im Sonnenschein Riesling Grosses Gewachs]()
- 96
- Biodynamic
2020 Okonomierat Rebholz Im Sonnenschein Riesling Grosses GewachsPfalz, GERMANY$190. 00Bottle$2280.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
So much energy and expression, but this remains really sleek and focused. Minty freshness. Power married to the minimum of weight necessary to support it. Then, at once silky and energetic at the very long, precise finish. From biodynamically grown grapes with Respekt certification. Drink or hold.
96 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.com![2020 Okonomierat Rebholz Kastanienbusch Riesling Grosses Gewachs Magnum (1500ml)]()
- 98
- Biodynamic
2020 Okonomierat Rebholz Kastanienbusch Riesling Grosses Gewachs Magnum (1500ml)Pfalz, GERMANY$440. 00Bottle$5280.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
At once exotic, yet cool and delicately herbal, very concentrated but no less light-footed, this shows crystalline purity that’s a wonder to behold! Moves on tiptoe through the super-long, filigree finish. From biodynamically grown grapes with Respekt certification. Drink or hold.
98 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.com![2024 Parish Vineyards Sorell Riesling]()
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2024 Parish Vineyards Sorell RieslingTasmania, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinYalumba’s Robert Hill Smith and Louisa Rose of Pewsey Vale & Heggies fame are intrinsically linked with Eden Valley Riesling. They had also long admired the potential of Tasmanian Riesling, so when the opportunity came up to work with a unique site of mature Riesling vines they jumped at it.
The Parish of Sorell is located 13km east of Tasmania’s Coal River. It’s cool maritime climate and mineral-rich soils, creates optimal conditions for producing intensely flavoured Riesling with slaty acidity.A scintillating Tassie Riesling - intensely flavoured, pure and pristine.
Brilliant water like core with greenish tinged surrounding edges. Intense lime and Granny Smith apple aromas leap out of the glass followed by some lemon, wet steel and chalky mineral notes. Scrumptious lime, lemon and green apple fruits are underpinned by sizzling acidity which has a distinct flinty theme to it. Dry steely back drop with some chalky elements also evident. The long snappy finish threaded with a distinct minerality. A perfect match with a plate of fresh Tassie oysters.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12%![2024 Patrick Two Blocks Early Release Riesling]()
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2024 Patrick Two Blocks Early Release RieslingSouth Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinFruit was sourced from Coonawarra and Wrattonbully. Brilliant water like colour with a faint greenish tinge around the outskirts. Lime and green apple aromas jump out of the glass trailed by some citrus and subtle chalky mineral notes. Mouth watering lime, citrus and green apple fruits overlay chalky elements and a stony mineral back drop. Crisp acidity with a snappy, generously fruited finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 11.5%![2024 Pauletts Clare Valley Riesling]()
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2024 Pauletts Clare Valley RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinIntense, textural and powerful with a long scrumptious finish.
Brilliant water like core with greenish tinged edges. Lime and citrus scents jump out of the glass trailed by some orange rind, talc and chalky mineral notes. Showing admirable intensity, textural volume and power, mouth watering lime, citrus and orange flavours drive the palate. Dispersed across the back half are chalky talc and mineral elements. Crunchy acidity with a long scrumptious finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12%![2023 Pauletts Polish Hill River Riesling]()
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2023 Pauletts Polish Hill River RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like core with greenish tinged edges. Intense lime, citrus and talc aromas jump out of the glass followed by some orange rind, hints of green apple and chalky mineral notes. Scrumptious lime and citrus fruits drive the palate underscored by chalky talc, orange rind and steely mineral elements. Excellent concentration with crunchy acidity and a long thirst quenching finish that shows plenty of zip.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 11.5%![2023 Penna Lane Watervale Riesling]()
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2023 Penna Lane Watervale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like colour with highlights of green around the outskirts. Intense lime and lemon scents are trailed by some Granny Smith apple, chalky talc and steely mineral notes. Mouth watering lemon and lime fruits are delivered with terrific concentration. Searingly crisp acidity with Granny Smith apple, wet steel and flinty mineral elements lingering underneath. Zingy feel finishing dry, long and steely.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews…..
From the Koerner family's Gullyview vineyard. Notable for its concentration of flavour, a big tick to start, freshness and general sense of vitality. It feels like a lot is going on in its compact textural space, with juicy red apples, ginger, green mango, quince and lime. Fresh as can be, frisky and yet a quiet savouriness under it all lending some charisma and counterbalance to the zing of that tangy acid. Immediately likeable, is the message, and a strong and distinct regional character, too. A winner. Drink by 2035.
94 Points
Mike Bennie – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionGullyview Vineyard, Leasingham.
Pear and perfume, lime, fennel and spice. Here’s a riper and rounder expression of Clare Riesling, though it still has a bit of crunch and energy, fine powdery texture, a bit nutty, with green apple and ginger flavour, and a long and dusty finish. Very nice. A heap of interest.
94 Points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front![2023 Penna Lane Skilly Valley Riesling]()
- 96
2023 Penna Lane Skilly Valley RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinThe Skilly Valley is a sub-region of Clare Valley that lies on the western side of the region. Brilliant water like colour with greenish tinged edges. Nosing generates intense lime, citrus and orange rind aromas that are laced with talc followed by some subtle wet steel and mineral notes. The mouth watering palate is flooded with a concentrate of lime, citrus and orange rind flavours with chalky talc and steely mineral characteristics lying underneath. Possessing exceptional drive and sizzling acidity it finishes dry, long and super scrumptious.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12%![2024 Pewsey Vale Estate Single Vineyard Riesling]()
- 95
2024 Pewsey Vale Estate Single Vineyard RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like colour with highlights of green around the outskirts. Jumping out of the glass are intense lime and citrus aromas which are complimented by distinct talc, orange rind and chalky mineral notes. The super scrumptious palate is laden with mouth watering lime, lemon and orange rind flavours which meld into a green apple, chalky talc and steely mineral back drop. Excellent concentration with crisp laser like acidity leading into a long snappy finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 11.5%![2017 Pewsey Vale Museum Reserve The Contours Riesling]()
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2017 Pewsey Vale Museum Reserve The Contours RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinThe Contours Riesling is crafted from old vines grown on the coolest slope within the Pewsey Vale Contours vineyard. Bottle aged for six years before release delivers a Riesling that’s rich and complex.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with a distinctive glimmer of green the outskirts and a watery hue. Intense lime and citrus aromas are complimented by toast, oily kerosene, lemon butter and spice notes. Concentrated lime and citrus fruits meld into a tertiary driven back drop of toast, lemon butter, subtle kerosene and steely mineral elements. Tense and focused but beginning to build textural volume, it features crisp, zesty acidity and finishes dry and long.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.5%Other Reviews….
Another museum release riesling, this one a five-year-old from the sensational Contours Block of the Pewsey Vale vineyard in the High Eden Valley. Light straw in the glass with aromas of Bickfords’ lime cordial, Christmas lily, orange blossom, almond paste, wildflowers, drying grass and crushed quartz. Long and pure with some soft spice notes joining in on the palate and a focused finish that sails off slowly into the distance. Drink by 2030.
94 Points
Dave Brookes – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion![2024 Pike & Joyce Lenswood Ceder Riesling]()
- 95
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Pike & Joyce Lenswood Ceder RieslingAdelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinTense and focused with a long racy finish.
Brilliant water like colour with a subtle greenish tinge around the edges. Lime and Granny Smith apple scents jump out of the glass followed by some lemon, wet steel and chalky mineral notes. Zippy lime, lemon and green apple fruits are underpinned by crunchy acidity with notions of wet steel, chalky talc and flinty mineral elements tailing off through the back half. Tense and focused with a long racy finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12%![2024 Pikes Traditionale Riesling]()
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2024 Pikes Traditionale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinPikes have long produced one of Clare Valley’s benchmark Rieslings, 2024 marking the 40th release, one which was a smooth, uninterrupted growing season that shows more forthcoming and bolder fruit whilst sacrificing nothing in terms of structure and length. Fruit is sourced predominately from the Estate’s Polish Hill River vineyard with the balance coming from growers located in the Watervale, Sevenhill, Leasingham and Mintaro districts. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel on lees for 3 months.
Brilliant water like core with greenish tinged edges. Leaping from the glass are intense lime and citrus scents which are complimented by orange rind, chalky talc and mineral notes. Zesty and racy in its feel, concentrated lime, lemon and green apple fruits fill the mouth with crisp mineral infused acidity the spine. Also evident are some subtle chalky talc and wet steel elements. Showing good tension it finishes dry, long and scrumptious.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 11.5%Other Reviews….
Consistently one of the finest Rieslings from Clare, especially when you consider value for money. This vintage turned out really well for Riesling in Clare. Most of the fruit comes from Pike’s Polish Hill River vineyards with the balance from other vineyards throughout the region. There is a degree of tension yet there is power and intensity with a fine minerality and subtle citrus tang. Lovely wine for current drinking and for the cellar. Drink 2024-2034.
95 points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.comIf there is a more reliable wine, which can provide better value than this one, anywhere in Australia, please let me know. Sourced half from estate vineyards and half from growers throughout the Clare Valley, this is the 40th consecutive release of this wine, a fine achievement. Free run juice only and then three months post fermentation on lees. A pale yellow hue, the nose exhibits typical lemon/lime aromas, with florals, grapefruit pith, river stones and oystershells. A classic Clare Riesling, everything is in place. It offers a gentle balance, with fresh acidity and impressive length. A wine which will easily see ten to fifteen years in a good cellar (I’d be prepared to put money that every single previous release, from the time they started using screwcaps more than twenty years ago, would still be drinking well – these things will rival the Californian redwoods for longevity). Drink 2024-2039.
94 points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com
The 2024 Traditionale Dry Riesling is dry and succulent, with ripe lime and Granny Smith apple, lemon pith and white pepper. This is magnificently delicious, with talc-like phenolics that shape the mid-palate and long finish. It is an excellent value for money, at $28 AUD / $17 USD. 11.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025-2034.
93 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate![2024 Pikes The Merle Riesling]()
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2024 Pikes The Merle RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$52. 99Bottle$635.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2024-2034)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinNamed in tribute to Pike’s family matriarch, ‘The Merle’ is a selection of the best parcels of Riesling from their Polish Hill River Estate.
Brilliant water like colour with a faint greenish tinge around the outskirts. Bursting out of the glass are intense lime, citrus and orange rind aromas which are trailed by some green apple, talc and steely mineral notes. Tense and focused, the riveting palate features concentrated flavours of lime, lemon and Granny Smith apple. Chiselled acidity lends a taut sculptured feel with subtle orange rind, chalky talc, wet steel and flinty mineral elements extending across the back half. Outstanding power with a long, bracing finish that’s delivered with laser like precision.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 11.5%Other Reviews…..
While the Traditionale is regularly one of the very best in its price bracket (and often well above it), The Merle never fails to sit among the very best releases of Clare Riesling, year after year, no matter what price bracket you quote. For me, this is one of our iconic Rieslings. The colour for this latest release is a near transparent lemon. The wine is elegant and refined, fresh and focused and offers drive, impeccable balance and endless length. A line of sea breeze acidity runs the length, the intensity never drops for a moment, and that freshness is still evident throughout. Fabulous stuff, this latest release is a worthy addition to the lineage. Enjoy over the next twenty years. Drink 2024-2044.
97 points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.comI'd be happy to lie on my back and have someone drip feed this Pikes The Merle Riesling into my mouth for the rest of my days. What an impeccable wine this is. Pure, focused, detailed and delicate all at the same time, class oozes from every pore.
It's a supreme exercise in precision and highlights the gift that the Clare Valley subregion of Polish Hill River is to the production of this fabulous variety.
Only made in exceptional years, specific parcels were selected and it was made exactly the same as the Traditionale Riesling.
Limes, lime leaf and green apple feature large but carry themselves with fabulous humility. Lemongrass and grapefruit add detail with a river stone minerality that threads its way through the frame. Pretty white field flowers offer a fresh and vibrant aroma that calls you back time and gain.
The 2024 Clare Valley Rieslings are absolutely humming and be sure to pop The Merle down as one of the wines that you need to track down. Drink to ten years+
97 points
QWineReviews.com
The 2024 The Merle Riesling is powerful and tightly controlled, with a long spool of flavor—lemongrass, white pepper, cheesecloth, bay leaf and scratched lime—that draws out over the finish. I like this wine in its youth, and I like it as an older wine as well. It's very smart and eloquently of place. 11.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2025-2044
96 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate![2024 Plantagenet Angevin Riesling]()
- 95
2024 Plantagenet Angevin RieslingGreat Southern, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinA zesty Great Southern Riesling that shows plenty of tension and focus.
Brilliant very pale straw colour with flashes of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Lime, lemon and green apple scents burst out of the glass trailed by some chalky talc and mineral notes. Crunchy lime, lemon and Granny Smith apple fruits are threaded by a line of zesty acidity which lends tension and focus. Chalky talc and steely mineral elements extend across the long crisp finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13%![2023 Pllana Clementine Watervale Riesling]()
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2023 Pllana Clementine Watervale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinA crisp, tense Riesling that’s beginning to show some tertiary development.
Brilliant water like core with highlights of green around the edges. Lime and lemon aromas are to the fore with some ensuing oily steel like, orange rind and flinty mineral notes. Crunchy lime and lemon fruits meld into a back drop of subtle oily kerosene characters, wet steel and minerals. Finishes dry with crisp acidity and a tense conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12%![2022 Pooley Cooinda Vale Vineyard Riesling]()
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2022 Pooley Cooinda Vale Vineyard RieslingTasmania, AUSTRALIA$64. 99Bottle$779.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 12.2%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like coloured core with greenish tinged edges. Elevated lime and red apple aromas meld into honeysuckle, orange blossom and citrus notes. Zesty lime and citrus fruits overlay a back drop of red apple, orange blossom infusions, traces of honeysuckle and stony mineral characters. Finishes dry with racy acidity and a long elegant aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.2%![2024 Poonawatta The Eden Riesling]()
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2024 Poonawatta The Eden RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 11.8%Closure: StelvinConcentrated and mouth watering with crisp acidity lending a steely feel to the long scrumptious finish.
Brilliant water like core with highlights of green around the edges. Intense lime and lemon aromas jump out of the glass followed by some orange rind, chalky talc, Granny Smith apple and steely mineral notes. Mouth watering lime, lemon and green apple fruits carve out a crunchy feel across the palate with chalky talc, orange rind and flinty mineral elements in the background. Crisp acidity lending a steely feel to the long scrumptious finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 11.8%![2023 Poonawatta The Eden Riesling - Last Stocks]()
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- Reduced
2023 Poonawatta The Eden Riesling - Last StocksEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $34.99$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 12.2%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like core with a distinct greenish tinge around the edges. Bounding from the glass are intense lime and citrus aromas which are intermeshed with orange rind, chalky talc and mineral notes. Mouth watering lime and citrus fruits are layered across the scrumptious palate with terrific concentration and textural volume. Notions of orange rind, green apple, talc and chalky mineral elements ensue. Finishes dry with crunchy acidity and a long thirst quenching aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.2%![2023 Precious Little Riesling]()
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2023 Precious Little RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like core with green tinged edges. Intense lime, citrus and orange rind scents jump out of the glass followed by some distinct talc and chalky mineral notes. Crunchy lime, citrus and orange rind flavours are delivered with terrific concentration and volume across the palate. Chalky talc and steely mineral characters lie underneath. Crisp, tart like acidity finishing dry, long and scrumptious.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.5%![2024 Provenance Henty Riesling]()
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2024 Provenance Henty RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 12.4%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like colour with subtle highlights of green around the edges. Lemon and lime aromas jump out of the glass complimented by some green apple, wet steel and chalky mineral notes. Crunchy lime, lemon and Granny Smith apple fruits are delivered with excellent intensity backed by crisp laser like acidity. Dry steely back drop with chalky mineral elements lingering through the long tense finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.4%![2024 Ravensworth Regional Riesling]()
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Ravensworth Regional RieslingMurrumbateman, NSW, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinA dry, tangy Riesling that has good textural flesh.
Fermented and matured on lees in Italian concrete tulips. Brilliant pale straw colour with highlights of green around the edges and a watery hue. Lifted lime and green apple skin aromas greet the nostrils followed by pear skin, mandarin and stony mineral notes. Lining the palate are flavours of pear, red apple skin and lime with some delicate honeysuckle, orange blossom infusion and minerals lying underneath. Good textural flesh with crunchy acidity and a long, dry, tangy mineral infused conclusion.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 12%![2021 Ravensworth Estate Riesling]()
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2021 Ravensworth Estate RieslingMurrumbateman, NSW, AUSTRALIA$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenABV: 12%Closure: StelvinBryan Martin has been producing thought-provoking wines in Murrumbateman wine country since 2001. Their Estate vineyard is managed sustainably, focusing on soil health, and foregoing synthetic chemicals, herbicides, and fertilisers. Fruit is also sourced for their Regional Series from the surrounding Young, Hilltops & Canberra District regions.
The Estate Riesling is sourced from mostly 25-year-old vines grown on granite soils at 650 metres elevation. After approximately 24 hours on skins, the fruit was direct-pressed to two ceramic eggs for fermentation and a year-long élevage with lees. It was then racked to old foudre where it rested before being bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Other Reviews....
Gosh this is good. We know this from prior, but the reminder is strong and evocative in the glass. It’s that powdery texture mixed with glass shards of acidity. The strong scents of fresh squeezed lemon, perfect Tommy’s Margaritas, green apple freshness. Intensity and crystalline texture yet so much drinkability and refreshment. Faint savouriness? That too. And a quartz-like minerally finish matched to light almond with citrus spiked over the lot. Wow. Drink 2021 - 2035.
95 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front![2023 Reed White Heart Riesling]()
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- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Reed White Heart RieslingMount Alexander, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$34. 99Bottle$419.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinTaut and tight yet concentrated and expressive with an edgy feel to the long zippy finish.
Sierra Reed’s winemaking journey began in New Zealand whilst filming and interviewing the Family of Twelve (a fraternity of New Zealand’s most prestigious and elite wineries). This inspired her to become completely immersed in winemaking taking on vintages around the world from Napa Valley to Barolo, Germany, Barossa and beyond, eventually making her own wines in 2015.
Aged predominantly in stainless steel on lees for 6 months. Brilliant pale straw colour with a faint greenish tinge to the edges and a watery hue. Lemon and lime scents burst out of the glass trailed by some Granny Smith apple skin, wet steel and flinty mineral notes. Taut and tight yet concentrated and expressive, the palate features mouth filling lime, lemon and green to red apple fruit over traces of honeysuckle, wet steel and flinty mineral elements. Crisp acidity lends an edgy feel to the long zippy finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12%
