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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.
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- 94
2021 Cooter & Cooter Watervale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2021-2027)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like core with a distinct glimmer of green to the outskirts. Intense lime and citrus scents jump out of the glass trailed by subtle orange rind, talc and mineral notes. Crunchy lemon and lime fruits overlay wet steel, chalky talc like characters and flinty mineral nuances. Finishes dry and crisp with a scrumptious green apple like aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 94
2017 Cooter & Cooter Watervale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinBrilliant very pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Lemon and lime juice aromas intermix with crunchy granny smith apple and steely mineral notes. Tight with a lean steely feel the palate has a crunchy flavour profile of lemon, lime and green apple over a bed of wet steel and minerals. Finishes very dry with racy acidity and a medium to long aftertaste.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2025 Corryton Burge RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinA crunchy, lime juice driven Riesling.
Brilliant water like core with a greenish tinge to the surrounds. Lemon, lime and green apple skin like scents are trailed by some steely mineral notes. Crunchy lime juice, lemon and green apple skin flavours skirt across the racy palate with some wet steel and mineral elements tailing off through the dry, crisp finish. Lime juice driven aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 95
2023 Corryton Burge Eden Valley RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$19. 99Bottle$239.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Intense lime and citrus aromas jump out of the glass followed by wet steel, hints of orange rind, chalky talc and mineral notes. Crunchy lime and citrus fruits fill the mouth carrying with them plenty of concentration and volume across the palate. Orange rind, wet steel and chalky mineral elements ensue. Crisp acidity imparting a zesty feel onto the long mouth watering finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 92
2022 Corryton Burge RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$21. 99Bottle$263.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like colour with a subtle tint of green to the edges. Intense lime, citrus and orange rind scents jump out of the glass followed by some talc and chalky mineral notes. Zesty lime and lemon fruits race across the palate with notions of wet steel and flinty mineral characters lying underneath. Dry crisp finish with a crunchy fresh aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 95
2020 Corryton Burge Eden Valley RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$22. 99Bottle$275.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2020-2026)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like colour with greenish tinged edges. Jumping out of the glass are intense lime, citrus and orange rind scents followed by hints of green apple and talc. Very concentrated and textured the palate is engulfed with mouth watering lime and citrus fruits which are sprawled over a back drop of orange rind, talc and minerals. Crunchy acidity backs the fruit. Fantastic power with a long tangy aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 95
- 94
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Crabtree Estate Watervale RieslingClare Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinFrom vines aged between 22 to 46 years old. Brilliant water like colour with a greenish tinged outskirts. Intense lime, citrus and orange rind scents jump out of the glass followed by talc, green apple and mineral notes. Concentrated and texturally mouth filling, the palate is awash with scrumptious lime, citrus and orange rind flavours which are underscored by crisp acidity. Talc and mineral elements ensue. Finishes long, mouth watering and quite voluminous.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 11.5%Other Reviews…..
This is a very punchy vibrant Riesling providing a compelling state of the Watervale region for Riesling…if it was ever really needed. It’s loaded with lemon and lemon rind on the nose with some nice floral touches. The palate typically is intense, extending purposefully to a very long finish. Drink 2024-2036.
94 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com -
- 93
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Craigie Knowe Estate RieslingTasmania, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 12.8%Closure: StelvinBrilliant very pale straw colour with a greenish tint to the edges and a watery hue. Elevated lime and red apple skin aromas carry a flinty overlay followed by some dried herb and smoky mineral like notes. Concentrated lime and red apple skin flavours intermix with hints of mandarin and smoky mineral like infusions. Finishes dry and bracing with crisp acidity and a long flinty aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.8% -
- 94
2021 Craigie Knowe Estate RieslingTasmania, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2028-2030)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like core with highlights of green skirting the edges. Bursting out of the glass are intense lime, citrus and orange rind scents which are trailed by chalky talc, mandarin and flinty mineral notes. Racy lime and orange flavours are energised by laser like acidity which gives the wine a crunchy feel. Citrusy mandarin, wet steel and flinty mineral characters chime in on the back half. Concludes dry with a taut and zesty finish.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 95
2017 Craigie Knowe Estate RieslingTasmania, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: 6 - 8 Years (2024-2026)ABV: 12.8%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like colour with a distinctive greenish tinge to the outskirts. Aromas of lime and granny smith apple are followed by hints of zesty lemon sherbet and flinty mineral notes. Mouthwatering flavours of lime juice, lemon and crunchy green apple have a zippy feel with underlying wet steel and flinty mineral characters. Finishes dry with racy acidity providing great structure. Long mineral infused aftertaste of lime, lemon, green apple and wet steel.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.8% -
- 95
2019 Craigie Knowe Estate RieslingTasmania, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2021-2029)ABV: 12.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like core with a distinctive greenish tinge running around the outskirts. Intense lime and lemon scents are married to notions of wet steel, chalk and minerals. Zesty lemon, lime and orange rind flavours fill the mouth and are underpinned by racy acidity. Finishes dry and crisp with steely mineral characters chiming in on the back half. Excellent drive and concentration with a long mouth watering aftertaste.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 95
2018 Craigie Knowe Estate RieslingTasmania, AUSTRALIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2019-2025)ABV: 12.8%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like colour with a distinctive tinge of green to the edges. Pronounced lime and citrus scents dominate the olfactory senses with hints of mandarin, green apple and slaty mineral notes also present. The palate shows wonderful intensity along with a well rounded slaty mouthfeel. Concentrated lime and citrus flavours overlay green apple, wet slate and mineral characters. Finishes dry and crisp with mouth watering acidity and a long aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12.8% -
- 97
- 94
- Organic
2024 Crawford River RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: StelvinThe 2024 Crawford River Riesling is the product of a near-ideal growing season, delivering pristine fruit in generous supply. Following a dry start to spring, timely rains in late November and early January set the vineyard up for a stress-free ripening period. Harvest commenced on March 21—earlier than usual—with immaculate, plentiful Riesling after several years of low yields.
Sourced from the estate’s oldest plantings (1975-77), the fruit comes from gravelly, ironstone-rich clay loams and sandy loams over limestone, imparting both floral lift and mineral-driven depth. Whole clusters were pressed, the juice naturally settled, and fermentation proceeded spontaneously in stainless steel. After eight weeks on lees, the wine was racked, blended, and bottled under screwcap in September 2024.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews....
A very bright green gold. Smells like the essence of perfectly ripened lemon and lime, jasmine and frangipani together with a little apple blossom. Gently textured, this flows mellifluously across the palate, finishing saline, chalky and long. Just a touch richer than the '23 and a beautiful wine to drink now and over the next eight to 10 years at least. Drink 2024-2034.
97 Points
Philip Rich - Halliday's Australian Wine CompanionWell here we go.
Flesh and cut, a duo of textures that make for complexity and interest. Concentration of lime and red apple, some light honey almond notes, a touch of sugared almond perhaps with light fennel and dill notes in the mix. It’s got some saline shimmer through it too, perhaps even some pleasing white balsamic lift to it all too. Attractive, a slightly wilder edge, with savouriness in the mix. Great, proper riesling and drinks with charm and interest, to be drunk younger with all that amplitude in this release. Drink 2025-2030.
94 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine FrontVery light straw colour in the glass; the bouquet is fresh but reserved at first, with subtle aromas of fresh pastry, lime and florals, building intensity with extended time in the glass. The palate is wonderfully intense and refined, delicate but penetrating and focused, with a lovely undertone of ripe fruit sweetness. Fruit flavour is perfectly balanced by the acidity and the persistence is very long. A concentrated, crystalline riesling which drinks well now but has much more in store for those who patiently cellar it.
97 Points
Huon Hooke - The Real Review -
- 95
- Organic
2024 Crawford River Strata RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: StelvinThe 2024 Crawford River Strata Riesling showcases exceptional purity and definition, thanks to a dream vintage after the challenges of 2022/23. The season began with a dry spring, followed by timely rainfall in late November that ensured excellent flowering, particularly for Riesling. Short bursts of rain in late December and January set the stage for a dry six weeks, with an early harvest starting on March 21. Immaculate fruit with plentiful yields marked a standout year. Grapes were pressed directly to stainless steel for natural settling, followed by fermentation using a mix of wild and commercial yeasts. The wine matured on lees for several weeks before blending and bottling in September 2024. Derived from loam-rich soils over limestone, this Riesling is open, generous, and expressive in its youth.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews....
From a block planted in '00/'01 on loam-dominant soils. A very bright green gold. Aromatic with classic citrus fruits together with some white peach, ripe pear, orange blossom and jasmine. Mouth-wateringly juicy and delicious with an underlying, fine vein of acidity. It's super now and will continue to be so for quite some time. Yum. Drink 2024-2032.
95 Points
Philip Rich - Halliday's Australian Wine Companion -
- 96
- 96
2016 Crawford River Museum Release RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$84. 99Bottle$1019.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinThe fruit for this wine is sourced from the original Crawford River vines, planted in the mid 1970’s. After fermentation is complete the wine is held on fine lees for a minimum of 8 weeks which adds a textural element to the wine. This wine has been carefully cellared at the winery, and has now been released for prime drinking.
Other Reviews....
A wine that stops you in your tracks for it has intensity of flavour yet feels effortless. The silk thread of acidity down the middle keeping the fine palate in place right through to a finish that is luxuriously long. Drink by 2030.
96 Points
Jane Faulkner - Halliday's Australian Wine CompanionGreat to see these mature release wines from Crawford River. Prophetic review from CM from the young release too…
This is flying. Beautiful wine marrying gentle maturity in characters of lightly toasted white bread, honeysuckle, wild honey, candle wax and yet impossible freshness of Granny Smith apple and lime. The palate is bright albeit gently slippery with age, more of the secondary characters of the bouquet and still holding a compact, racy form. The finish is almost sparkling with pink grapefruit and gin-like botanical zestiness. Stellar. Drink 2023 - 2030+
96 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front -
- 96
- 97
2018 Crawford River Reserve RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: StelvinThe fruit for this wine is sourced from the original Crawford River vines, planted in the mid 1970’s. The Reserve Riesling is composed of the best parcels, which are set aside in and released with age, this vintage with 5 years in bottle.
Other Reviews....
This is a wine of both power and texture, but more importantly, it's a wine of complexity. It engages you. Citrus rind, grapefruit, petroleum, crushed fennel seeds and bright orange blossom characters put on a display that is at once exquisite and kaleidoscopic. Drink 2023-2032.
96 Points
Campbell Mattinson - Halliday's Australian Wine CompanionAll hail Crawford River riesling! The top dog from the top dog!
It’s magnificent. A schooling in riesling beauty, tension, texture, vitality, layers of fruit, spice, yeasty elements and a persistence that can’t be beat. If anything, a little more understated than other Reserve rieslings from CR, not quite delicate but playing to a more gentle strength. Fragrant, with a fog of fruit and spice, flavoursome but in a sheath of lightly puckering texture. Stains the palate gently too. I like that the wine has character, not set to a standard, loaded with character. Vibrant through that great trail of the finish. Stellar stuff. Drink 2023 - 2035+
97 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front -
- 96
2022 Crawford River RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$59. 99Bottle$719.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinThe fruit for this wine is sourced from the original Crawford River vines, planted in the mid 1970’s. After fermentation is complete the wine is held on fine lees for a minimum of 8 weeks which adds a textural element to the wine.
Other Reviews....
Crawford River are one of the more anticipated releases with unnerving consistency and quality. Interesting that these wines have been part of the make up of my work, in various guises, for now over 20 years too.
This is one of the most straight up delicious releases I have tried. Moreish to the max. It’s succulent in texture, which is important, which means it’s juicy but also has chalky pucker. perfect. This one has a lime sorbet bent, green apple sherbet too, a splash of gin n tonic perhaps – all of that sounds pretty delicious as a thing to consume. It’s fragrant, flavoursome and very refreshing. Extension of flavour is significant too. It just nails everything so well. Drink 2023 - 2040.
96 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front -
- 94
- Organic
2022 Crawford River Strata RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$37. 99Bottle$455.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: StelvinOther Reviews....
Young Vines is dead, long live Young Vines! The Young Vines labelling is now called Strata, as per this wine. A shift in the paradigm for Crawford River’s nomenclature, and one that we’ve been curiously awaiting, perhaps!
It’s a beauty. A bit more weight and texture than some releases, a softness, gentle savouriness underling, some slate-like mineral elements and this gentle concentration of lime juice, hazy green apple juice, a touch of fennel in there too. It flows beautifully and effortlessly, and though a touch richer, let’s say, maintains great freshness and vibrancy despite that. It feels of superior quality fruit and gentle winemaking application. It’s a star. Drink 2022 - 2035.
94 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front (November 2022) -
- 95
2021 Crawford River RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinOther Reviews....
The staple Crawford River riesling.
A beauty. Quite a savoury release with hazelnut and cashew like nuttiness rolled through soft green apple, nectarine notes, pulpy grapefruit and fine, talc-like minerally characters. Excellent length, concentration and mouth-filling pleasure. This isn’t a skeletal release but one of lavishness and freshness hand-in-hand. Really, really good. Drink 2022 - 2030.
95 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front (March 2022) -
- 96
2015 Crawford River Museum RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinOther Reviews....
What a coup that one of the country’s best riesling producers gifts us a wine with this kind of bottle age, mainlining a wine in its prime of drinking. And it is. And as ever, the real deal.
Concentration and power with grace and freshness. You see the maturity in elements of honeycomb and brown lime notes, a bit of peanut brittle and hazelnut in the mix, but green lime, green apple and green mango are persuasive, and the texture has this incredible chalky edge that brings forth max drinkability and a great reset of the palate after each sip. It’s a wine with its plumage on show, a fine, excellent and complex thing in the glass. Outstanding release – and more to go. Drink 2022 - 2030+
96 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front (March 2022) -
- 96
2018 Crawford River Expression #1 RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$79. 99Bottle$959.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Screw CapOther Reviews....
It’s great to see some for the second generation influence in a few of the Great Riesling Houses of Australia coming through, with Frankland Estate eking out Alter Weg and now Crawford River releasing this thoughtfully produced new release that likewise uses barrel fermentation and lees to enhance high quality riesling fruit. La Violetta is first gen, but Andrew Hoadley’s Das Sakrileg comes to mind here too. This wine saw its natural ferment out in barrel and then hung out there for two more years. To paraphrase, this is an intent to “constantly strive for high quality wines while extending some winemaking boundaries”. Indeed.
It’s kindred to Crawford River’s riesling staples in intensity, concentration and presence in the glass, but this is a whole new thing. A wild expression with quality writ large, but this isn’t for purists, let’s say, unless oxidative, nutty-savoury wines of Jura or lo-fi Burgundy comes to mind readily, as it shares kindred space with wines of that ilk, in some ways. While not wholly in an eccentric camp it’s just strikingly different to Crawford River’s detail and purity with riesling; there’s salted cashew, sourdough yeasty notes, toffee apple characters and of course the citrus, floral and apple that fills the DNA of the vineyard’s staple characters. Acidity is saline, coursing with energy and incredibly refreshing in this wine. Texture is taut, slightly gummy like wet chalk and excellent. Flavours are bold, as is the perfume. It’s lavish, it’s so very complex, so very interesting, so very good. Give it time in a decanter, don’t drink too cold. Drink 2021 - 2030.
96 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front (August 2021) -
- 96
- 96
2020 Crawford River RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Screw CapOther Reviews....
Crawford River riesling needs little introduction. The 2020 harvest in Henty seems to be very good by most reports, though I’ve heard of yields being down and some climate pressure with frost and the like, early. Crawford River’s vineyards are in their own universe so probably all good there.
Brilliant riesling. Texture, weight, drive, energy – top marks for all. Scents of green apple juice, frangipani, ozone, fennel and lime. Flavours are similar with beautiful concentration, glossy texture, flecks of talc-powdery minerality, and an extremely long, cool, herbal, juicy-lime finish making this moreish and righteous. Impeccable balance, a sense of grace and comely flow. A wine to sip and savour; relish the little details. Magic stuff. Drink 2021 - 2040.
96 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front (August 2021)Hard to believe this complex, astounding riesling is so, so, very young. It comes fully formed, in balance, bursting with freshness, purity of varietal expression and beautiful fruit. And, yes, by usual standards it is riper, with stone fruits joining lemon drop, grapefruit and baked apple. But it brings added complexity and texture, which joins with a tingly acidity to produce something memorable. Drink by 2030.
96 Points
Jeni Port - James Halliday's Wine Companion (January 2021) -
- 95
2020 Crawford River Young Vines RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$31. 99Bottle$383.88 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Screw CapOther Reviews....
A Very Anticipated Wine Release Each Year.
Very Intense Release. So much perfume, so much velocity and fruit power to taste. Citrus oil, apple juice concentrate, faintest honeyed character, a sluice of saline minerality. Powerful, amazing white wine here. A few grades up in usual density and intensity from Crawford River on this cuvee. Drink 2021 - 2030+
94 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front (May 2021)A combination of crushed and whole-bunch fruit, neutral yeast, fermentation in stainless steel, 3 months on lees prior to racking and blending. Not fined. So youthful, so fresh in a squeezed juice kind of way. Lemon jelly crystals, lemon drop, grapefruit pith, orange peel, lime blossom, in scent and on the palate. Nice texture in building phase. But, as usual, the co-star with equal billing in this production is the crunchy, tangy acidity. Drink by 2031.
95 Points
Jeni Port - James Halliday's Wine Companion (January 2021) -
- 96
- 95
2019 Crawford River Young Vines RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$29. 99Bottle$359.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2021-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinFrom a younger block of vines planted in 2000, this wine sees a minimum of 8 weeks of lees which lends it its textural quality.
Brilliant pale straw colour with a distinct greenish tinge to the outskirts and a watery hue. Intense lemon and lime aromatics burst out of the glass trailed by orange rind, talc and subtle steely mineral notes. Exceptionally concentrated and mouth filling the palate is awash with ripe lemon and lime fruits which are complimented by notions of orange rind, green apple, talc and flinty minerals. Texturally full with a luscious like feel it finishes dry and crisp with a very powerful, intensely flavoured aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
Surprisingly reticent yet still a delicious rendition this vintage. If anything, it's more subtle, savoury even. Sure it has the hint of lemon blossom, but also wet slate and texture, more phenolic grip, it's riper and all done well. Drink by 2030.
95 points
Jane Faulkner - James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionOne day this wine will become just ‘riesling’ but it will have to come of age. The vines are legally old enough to drink the stuff that comes off them, now.
It was the summery thirst quencher I couldn’t stop thinking about on the way back from the beach, today. All lemon-lime, sweet green apple, tart acidity, clip of chalky pucker, refreshment factor through the roof, barely there stickiness of riesling fruit and a faint lick of kero or wet hay or something slightly savoury-waxy. Such a treat. Such a good riesling. Drink 2020-2030+
94 points
Mike Bennie – The Wine Front -
- 97
- 95
- 95
2019 Crawford River RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2021-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: StelvinThe fruit for this wine is sourced from the original Crawford River vines, planted in the mid 1970’s. After fermentation is complete the wine is held on fine lees for a minimum of 8 weeks which adds a textural element to the wine.
Brilliant pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Jumping out of the glass are potent scents of lemon and lime which intermix with wet steel, granny smith apple and chalky mineral notes. Boasting magnificent concentration and power, the racy palate is awash with intense lemon, lime and green apple fruits which are underpinned by crisp steely infused acidity and chalky mineral elements. Generously textured mouthfeel with an incredibly long and zesty aftertaste. Outstanding.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews…..
I was only reviewing the 2018 release in June of this year. Odd. Time moves strangely at times. Pound for pound one of the greatest wines in Australia, by my reckoning, value and quality. Again, great wine here.
It’s an inky, dense release with impressive flavour spectrum and sense of complexity. Indeed, this release is perhaps less about precision and velocity and more about quiet opulence, layers of fruit character ranging from citrus to apples to stone fruits with spice, herbal detail and strong, talc and chalk-like minerally charm (and texture!) in the mix. So much going on. A wine to really sit back and contemplate, while washing over the senses with a general freshness. Yeah. Drink 2020-2035.
95 points
Mike Bennie – The Wine FrontThe 'old' vines, planted in '75 and '77, hit their straps years ago. Today, this is a wine of provenance. Yet a cool region is not immune to hot/drier weather and this already has some forward toasty, lime marmalade flavours and could advance the ageing process. It is drinking beautifully now, as there's certainly the acid backbone keeping this afloat. Drink by 2029.
95 points
Jane Faulkner – James Halliday’s Australian Wine CompanionVery vivid lemon and lime notes with juice, pith and peel, as well as white peach and some gently herbal notes, too. The palate is smoothly refined, seamless and long with interlaced peach and citrus flavors that hold very long. Concentrated fruit drive here. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
95 points
JamesSuckling.comBright light-mid yellow-green hue, and a refined, restrained lime/lemon aroma. The palate is rich and juicy at the same time as it's refined and delicate. There is power here, concentration and persistence: it's a stunning balancing act of rich, ripe fruit with refinement. Variations on the theme of lemon! This is a magnificent riesling.
98 points
Huon Hooke -
- 96
- 95
2018 Crawford River RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$42. 99Bottle$515.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2019-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinLaden with concentrated lime and citrus fruits, this is a texturally expressive Riesling that demonstrates great power
A brilliant water like core is surrounded by a luminous green tinged outskirts. Intense lime and green apple aromas meld into citrus and orange rind notes followed by a steely minerality. Mouth watering, the palate is bristling with concentrated lime and lemon flavours which overflow into orange rind, subtle talc, wet steel and mineral characters on the driving finish. Powerful with fresh crunchy acidity and a long drawn out aftertaste.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
From the '75-'77 planting, crushed and whole-bunch pressed, cool-fermented with cultured and wild yeast, 3 months on gross lees. The bouquet is a butterfly, moving from flower to flower so quickly it's hard to keep up with the citrus blossom, rose petal and wild flower only part of the story. The palate crystallises the citrus component with nerve-tingling acidity. Drink by 2033.
95 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion -
- 96
- 96
2017 Crawford River RieslingHenty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2019-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like colour with distinctive highlights of green around the outskirts. Aromas of lemon, lime and green apple are overlaid with wet steel characters and a distinct minerality. Fantastic palate intensity with mouth watering lime, lemon and orange rind flavours cascading through to a long dry finish that also sees elements of subtle talc, wet steel and flinty mineral present. Nicely textured with crunchy fresh acidity and a long lime, citrus, subtle orange and flinty mineral aftertaste.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
Wow this is good. There's a lot of very good riesling around but the details here are so punchy and so vivid; it just has that extra something. Lime, slate and spice flavours but it's the palate intensity and power through the finish which sets it apart. Drink by 2032.
96 points
Campbell Mattinson – James Halliday’s Wine CompanionIt’s a boon for this wine to have the extra year over the Young Vines (2018). It helps unlock the wine a little, opening up the bouquet and letting the palate show a little extra width. Notwithstanding the Young Vines is excellent, and similarly made, it’s just that time passing seems to work in the favour of riesling from Crawford River – taking time has always been one of the virtues of this extraordinary producer.
Moreish, delicious white that meshes citrus fruit, green apple crunch, mixed mineral-like characters, talc-like texture and exceptional length into a cohesive riesling of quiet power and joyous perfume. It’s a rapier-thrust of tightly wound, lean and refreshing fruit with purity and velocity to burn. Such a sense of precision here too, especially helped by the quivering tension found from the tight, chalky boundaries of the wine. You get the sense of quality fruit and considered winemaking from first sip. Best yet, beyond that, it’s fantastic drinking. Drink 2018-2035+
95+ points
Mike Bennie – The Wine Front -
- 95
- Reduced
2021 Curator Wine Co. Eden Valley RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $19.99$17. 99Bottle$215.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2021-2027)ABV: 11%Closure: StelvinBrilliant very pale straw colour with a distinct glimmer of green around the outskirts and a watery hue. Intense lime, citrus and orange rind scents jump out of the glass with notions of talc and chalky minerals also evident. Mouth watering lime zest, lemon and orange rind fruits show both volume and concentration across the palate. Crunchy acidity with talc, green apple and slatey mineral characters flowing onto the back half. Dry, zippy finish with a scrumptiously long aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 11% -
- 95
- Reduced
2023 Dandelion Vineyards Enchanted Garden of the Eden Valley RieslingEden Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIAReduced from $23.99$21. 99Bottle$263.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 11.5%Closure: StelvinBrilliant very pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Intense lime and citrus aromas engulf the nostrils with distinct orange rind, talc and chalky mineral notes also evident. A concentrate of mouth watering lime and citrus flavours drive the palate. Notions of green apple, chalky talc like characters, subtle orange rind and mineral lie underneath. Crunchy acidity finishing dry, long and scrumptious.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 11.5%Other Reviews….
Bright and luminous, the nose has a honey and citrus influence with traces of white flower and bath salts. The palate is tightly controlled with a degree of tension extending to the long finish where other characters of dried herbs and green apple emerge. It’s dry as chips but with plenty of deeply penetrating flavour. Drink 2024-2034.
93 Points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com -
- 94
- 95
2024 Delatite RieslingMansfield, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$24. 99Bottle$299.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinZesty lime, citrus and Granny Smith apple fruits with a steely mineral infused spine of acidity.
Brilliant pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Elevated lime and citrus aromas dominate the nose with some green apple, chalky talc and steely mineral notes also evident. Zesty lime, citrus and Granny Smith apple fruits line the mouth watering palate. Steely mineral infused acidity forms the spine with some chalky talc like elements lingering across the back half. Long, steely mineral laced finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews…..
A lovely, engaging riesling that is at once delicate while boasting impressive fruit concentration. Spring blossom and white florals join with lime citrus (pith, peel and juice) with hints of fresh alpine herbs. Well composed, lightly textured and chalky-fine, it is carried along on a super fresh acid line. Another good 'un from a top riesling maker.
95 Points
Jeni Port - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion - 2023 Bindi Wines Dhillon Glenhope Vineyard RieslingMacedon Ranges, Victoria, AUSTRALIA$36. 99Bottle$443.88 DozenABV: 13%Closure: Stelvin
Michael Dhillon’s latest venture, emerging from the granite-rich soils at the northern tip of the Macedon Ranges, 460 meters above sea level, marks a thrilling expansion of his “negociant” wine collection. The Riesling, harvested in mid April, underwent natural fermentation in seasoned French oak barrels followed by maturation of over six months on delicate yeast lees. The aroma unfolds with understated complexity, revealing initial hints of lime and lemon zest, followed by nuances of sherbet, spice, floral accents, and a savory touch from the lees.
-
- 94
- Organic
- Biodynamic
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2017 Domaine Barmes-Buecher Steingrubler Riesling Grand CruAlsace, FRANCE$89. 99Bottle$1079.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 12.5%Closure: Diam CorkBright straw colour with a watery hue. Elevated red apple, pear and honeysuckle aromas are followed by hints of lime, subtle oily toast and spice notes. Rich baked pear and apple flavours overlay traces of honeysuckle, oily toast like characters and lime. Finishes dry and spicy with crisp acidity. Currently in a transition stage it will continue to build on its waxy texture. Concludes medium to long and elegant.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 95
- 96
- Biodynamic
2021 Domaine Barmes-Buecher Rosenberg RieslingAlsace, FRANCE$69. 99Bottle$839.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkBright straw colour with a watery hue. Ripe lime, pear and red apple skin aromas fill the nostrils followed by hints of honeysuckle, wet stones and minerals. Vibrant lime and red apple fruits are underpinned by racy saline mineral infused acidity. Delicate pear, honeysuckle and flinty wet stone like elements ensue. Dry and zingy it finishes bracingly fresh, lined with flinty mineral characteristics.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
Incredibly complex nose with a wide spectrum of dried herb aromas plus notes of fine green beans, smoke and flint. A mouth-filling and mind-expanding finely-nuanced richness on the beautifully balanced palate. Then comes a wave of salty minerality that gently sweeps you away. A cuvee of six parcels with clay, limestone and sandstone soils. Matured on the full lees in large neutral oak for a year. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink or hold.
96 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 95
- 93
- Biodynamic
2020 Domaine Barmes-Buecher Leimental RieslingAlsace, FRANCE$76. 99Bottle$923.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 14%Closure: Diam CorkBright straw colour with a watery hue. Pronounced ripe lime and red apple scents are complimented by hints of honeysuckle, orange blossom, wet stone and distinct mineral notes. Rich, mouthfilling flavours of lime, red apple, pear and honeysuckle carry terrific volume and texture across the palate with infusions of orange blossom and slatey mineral characters lying underneath. Brisk acidity with a long and intense yet energetic finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews…
A muscular and concentrated dry riesling that manages to remain very clean and bright, in spite of 14% alcohol. The tropical-fruit aromas are only just opening up, but the balance of freshness and ripeness is spot-on. Long, silky finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drinkable now, but best from 2024.
93 Points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
2019 Domaine Barmes-Buecher Steingrubler Riesling Grand CruAlsace, FRANCE$99. 99Bottle$1199.88 DozenMinimum 6 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam CorkBright straw colour with a watery hue. Intense lime, red apple and pear scents intermingle with hints of honeysuckle, kerosene and wet slate. Rich pear, lime and red apple fruits carry plenty of textural volume which is contrasted against racy acidity. Notions of honeysuckle, lemon and wet slate line the back half. Finishes dry, very fresh, long and minerally.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13%Other Reviews….
Light-medium yellow colour; some wild ferment edginess and lift on the nose coupled with candied citrus peel and fruit compote aromas. The wine is bright and lively in the mouth, with a richness and range of flavours that must reflect the way the wine was vinified and matured. It takes riesling to a different place than simple varietal fruit. The depth of flavour is special, the finish lingers on and on, and the wine is tremendously seamless and harmonious, acidity definitely there but not strongly felt. A very complex multi-faceted riesling that is tremendously satisfying to taste.|
97 Points
Huon Hooke – The Real Review -
- 95
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2021 Domaine Barmes-Buecher RieslingAlsace, FRANCE$49. 99Bottle$599.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinBrilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Intense ripe pear, baked apple and honeysuckle scents are trailed by some lime and subtle mandarin notes. Racy lime, mandarin and lemon fruits are underscored by wet slate and flinty mineral elements. Dry finish with zingy acidity and a long mouth wateringly tense aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 96
- Biodynamic
2018 Domaine Trapet R.Q.W.R. Riquewihr RieslingAlsace, FRANCE$44. 99Bottle$539.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2022-2030)ABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkJean-Louis Trapet of Domaine Trapet in Gevrey-Chambertin, Burgundy and his Alsatian born wife Andree run this certified organic and biodynamic estate in Alsace. This Riesling is sourced from less than 1 hectare of vines grown on a hillside overlooking the village of Riquewihr with an East Southeast orientation. The grapes are hand harvested and fermented in stainless steel before being aged for 10-12 months in neutral French oak and concrete eggs.
Brilliant pale straw colour with greenish tinged edges and a watery hue. Intense lime and citrus scents meld into lemon butter, bees wax, toast and flinty wet stone notes. Rich and voluminous on the palate, generously textured lime and citrus fruits are underpinned by fresh zippy acidity. Subtle notions of bees wax, lemon butter, wet stone, delicate tertiary kerosene and smoky mineral characters ensue. Outstanding depth finishing long and concentrated with an oily like feel.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 12.5% -
- 94
- 92
2022 Domaine Wachau Federspiel Terrassen RieslingWachau, AUSTRIA$32. 99Bottle$395.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinBrilliant pale straw colour with a greenish tint to the edges and a watery hue. Pronounced lime zest, red apple skin and lemon aromas escape out of the glass followed by a very faint whiff of honeysuckle and flinty mineral notes. The zesty palate features lime, red apple and lemon fruits over a delicate honeysuckle, wet slate and mineral back drop. Crunchy acidity finishing dry with a long zippy aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12%Other Reviews…..
A sleek and mineral riesling with honey, apricots, slate, lemons and oyster shells. Zesty and flavorful, with a medium body and mineral, long finish. Sustainable. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
92 points
JamesSuckling.com -
- 93
2021 Domaine Wachau Federspiel RieslingWachau, AUSTRIA$27. 99Bottle$335.88 DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)ABV: 12%Closure: StelvinBrilliant water like core with highlights of green around the outskirts. Elevated lime, red apple and orange blossom scents meld into wet slate and flinty mineral end notes. A faint whiff of honeysuckle is also evident. Zippy lime, lemon and red apple fruits race across the palate underscored by subtle honeysuckle, flint and crunchy mineral infused acidity. Finishes dry and zingy with a lemon and flinty mineral laced aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 12% -
- 95
- 95
- Biodynamic
2021 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Riesling Clos WindsbuhlAlsace, FRANCE$175. 00Bottle$2100.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkModern day Domaine Zind Humbrecht started with the 1959 amalgamation of the Humbrecht family vineyards in Gueberschwihr and the Zind family vineyards in Wintzenheim. However current custodian Olivier Humbrecht MW is the latest generation of Humbrecht winemakers dating back to 1620. Olivier is a legend among modern French winemakers, becoming France’s first Master of Wine at the age of 29, before returning to the family Domaine and beginning a journey to revitalise the vineyards after years of chemical treatment common at the time. Today the Domaine comprises 41.1 hectares of vines spread throughout a range of Grand Cru and single-vineyard sites, all cultivated organically and according to biodynamic principles. These are the pinnacle of aromatic whites from Alsace.
Other Reviews....
The 2021 Riesling Clos Windsbuhl is grown on Triassic limestone, facing east to southeast, on the upper part of the clos with less topsoil. The age of the old vines is unknown, estimated to be 65 years old. The younger vines were planted in the early 1980s. Windsbuhl means windy hill and used to be referred to as petit Sibérie - so it comes into its own now. Reduction takes over on the nose, but underneath, there are gentle glimpses of lemon. The palate has a real phenolic edge, a lovely, pithy bitterness that lends contour to the lemony flow. Lovely flashes of passion fruit pop up, upping the aromatic game, lending allure to flavor and texture, underlined by a bone-dry finish. (Bone-dry). Drink 2027-2060.
95 points
Anne Krebiehl MW - VinousA noble wine that’s extremely subtle and delicate, the power seriously underplayed, almost hiding in the many corners of this shy beauty. Super-elegant interplay of ripe acidity, medium body and silkiness. Great aging potential. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
95 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
- Biodynamic
2021 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Riesling Hengst Grand CruAlsace, FRANCE$175. 00Bottle$2100.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkModern day Domaine Zind Humbrecht started with the 1959 amalgamation of the Humbrecht family vineyards in Gueberschwihr and the Zind family vineyards in Wintzenheim. However current custodian Olivier Humbrecht MW is the latest generation of Humbrecht winemakers dating back to 1620. Olivier is a legend among modern French winemakers, becoming France’s first Master of Wine at the age of 29, before returning to the family Domaine and beginning a journey to revitalise the vineyards after years of chemical treatment common at the time. Today the Domaine comprises 41.1 hectares of vines spread throughout a range of Grand Cru and single-vineyard sites, all cultivated organically and according to biodynamic principles. These are the pinnacle of aromatic whites from Alsace.
Other Reviews....
So much power and energy for vines that are just six years old. Mind-blowing chalky minerality and citrusy freshness on the tightly-focused palate. So much drive at the bold and dramatic finish. The first vintage of this wine. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
96 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
- 98
- Biodynamic
2021 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Riesling Clos Saint Urbain Rangen de Thann Grand CruAlsace, FRANCE$230. 00Bottle$2760.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkModern day Domaine Zind Humbrecht started with the 1959 amalgamation of the Humbrecht family vineyards in Gueberschwihr and the Zind family vineyards in Wintzenheim. However current custodian Olivier Humbrecht MW is the latest generation of Humbrecht winemakers dating back to 1620. Olivier is a legend among modern French winemakers, becoming France’s first Master of Wine at the age of 29, before returning to the family Domaine and beginning a journey to revitalise the vineyards after years of chemical treatment common at the time. Today the Domaine comprises 41.1 hectares of vines spread throughout a range of Grand Cru and single-vineyard sites, all cultivated organically and according to biodynamic principles. These are the pinnacle of aromatic whites from Alsace.
Other Reviews....
The 2021 Riesling Rangen de Thann Clos Saint Urbain Grand Cru is from the famously steep and dark volcanic rock of Rangen with some sandstone inclusions. The soil is rich in potassium which buffers the pH of the wine, making the acid less strident yet lending much power to the wines. The oldest plots of Riesling are up to 60 years old; the younger vines are 45 years old. The color is golden. Underneath the reduction is a spicy smokiness, with greengage and white pepper. There is something utterly fluid, intense, compact and concentrated that seems to have a total verticality, driving into the depth of the rock. The wine has luminous citric yet balanced freshness and is clear as a bell. Wait for this because it will be sensational. The finish is bone-dry and salty. (Bone-dry). Drink 2027-2080.
96 points
Anne Krebiehl MW - VinousWelcome to the dark side of the dry riesling force where gunpowder meets the stone at the heart of the peach. Dazzling racy intensity. Super-long and pure with a mountain of crushed rock character at the smoky finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
98 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com -
- 96
- Biodynamic
2020 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Riesling Clos HausererAlsace, FRANCE$110. 00Bottle$1320.00 DozenABV: 13%Closure: CorkModern day Domaine Zind Humbrecht started with the 1959 amalgamation of the Humbrecht family vineyards in Gueberschwihr and the Zind family vineyards in Wintzenheim. However current custodian Olivier Humbrecht MW is the latest generation of Humbrecht winemakers dating back to 1620. Olivier is a legend among modern French winemakers, becoming France’s first Master of Wine at the age of 29, before returning to the family Domaine and beginning a journey to revitalise the vineyards after years of chemical treatment common at the time. Today the Domaine comprises 41.1 hectares of vines spread throughout a range of Grand Cru and single-vineyard sites, all cultivated organically and according to biodynamic principles. These are the pinnacle of aromatic whites from Alsace.
Other Reviews....
A lot of riesling freaks say the grape needs stony soils, but here’s a beautiful example of how well it can do on clay-rich soil. So much citrus and peach here, even though there’s still a touch of youthful leeriness. Rich and powerful, it also has a very firm core behind the breathtaking succulence. Already great integration of concentration, fine tannins and bright acidity through the very long and complete finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
96 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com -
- 95
- Biodynamic
2020 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Riesling Clos WindsbuhlAlsace, FRANCE$145. 00Bottle$1740.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkModern day Domaine Zind Humbrecht started with the 1959 amalgamation of the Humbrecht family vineyards in Gueberschwihr and the Zind family vineyards in Wintzenheim. However current custodian Olivier Humbrecht MW is the latest generation of Humbrecht winemakers dating back to 1620. Olivier is a legend among modern French winemakers, becoming France’s first Master of Wine at the age of 29, before returning to the family Domaine and beginning a journey to revitalise the vineyards after years of chemical treatment common at the time. Today the Domaine comprises 41.1 hectares of vines spread throughout a range of Grand Cru and single-vineyard sites, all cultivated organically and according to biodynamic principles. These are the pinnacle of aromatic whites from Alsace.
Other Reviews....
Still very youthful, with a wealth of cool and delicate herbal and stone-fruit aromas. Very straight and vertical, with super-elegant and energetic acidity. Tons of chalky power, but the fruit is only just beginning to open up on the sleek but very compact palate. I love the really long, fragrant finish. The structure and harmony for very long aging! From biodynamically grown grapes. Drinkable now, but best from 2024.
95 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com -
- 98
- Biodynamic
2020 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Riesling Brand Grand CruAlsace, FRANCE$160. 00Bottle$1920.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkModern day Domaine Zind Humbrecht started with the 1959 amalgamation of the Humbrecht family vineyards in Gueberschwihr and the Zind family vineyards in Wintzenheim. However current custodian Olivier Humbrecht MW is the latest generation of Humbrecht winemakers dating back to 1620. Olivier is a legend among modern French winemakers, becoming France’s first Master of Wine at the age of 29, before returning to the family Domaine and beginning a journey to revitalise the vineyards after years of chemical treatment common at the time. Today the Domaine comprises 41.1 hectares of vines spread throughout a range of Grand Cru and single-vineyard sites, all cultivated organically and according to biodynamic principles. These are the pinnacle of aromatic whites from Alsace.
Other Reviews....
Be prepared to be amazed! Staggering nose of ripe pineapple, Amalfi lemon, honeysuckle and mystery. Enormously powerful and concentrated with breathtaking drive, this heads off into space like a star ship. Such razor-sharp mineral acidity, yet also staggering, textural complexity at the incredibly long finish with its cornucopia of citrusy aromas. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
98 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com -
- 99
- Biodynamic
2020 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Riesling Clos Saint Urbain Rangen de Thann Grand CruAlsace, FRANCE$199. 00Bottle$2388.00 DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkModern day Domaine Zind Humbrecht started with the 1959 amalgamation of the Humbrecht family vineyards in Gueberschwihr and the Zind family vineyards in Wintzenheim. However current custodian Olivier Humbrecht MW is the latest generation of Humbrecht winemakers dating back to 1620. Olivier is a legend among modern French winemakers, becoming France’s first Master of Wine at the age of 29, before returning to the family Domaine and beginning a journey to revitalise the vineyards after years of chemical treatment common at the time. Today the Domaine comprises 41.1 hectares of vines spread throughout a range of Grand Cru and single-vineyard sites, all cultivated organically and according to biodynamic principles. These are the pinnacle of aromatic whites from Alsace.
Other Reviews....
So smoky, with intense gunpowder character, but also notes of forest mushrooms and jack fruit. This is not only very concentrated, but also has an amazingly sensual mouth-feel that sets out in the wide field of exciting dry Alsace rieslings from the 2020 vintage. Expands and expands as it flows over your palate until it blows your mind at the unbelievably long, smoky finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
99 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com -
- 91
2018 Domaine Zind Humbrecht Riesling TurckheimAlsace, FRANCE$39. 99Bottle$479.88 DozenMinimum 12 bottlesCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2020-2023)ABV: 11.5%Closure: CorkBright straw colour with a watery hue. Aromas of lime, red apple and honeysuckle are followed by baked pear and rose water notes. Very rounded in the mouth the palate has ripe Jonathan apple, lime and traces of lychee fruit sitting over light cinnamon spice and subtle slate tones. Finishes dry with sufficient but relatively soft acidity and a medium length aftertaste.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 11.5% -
- 96
- 98
- 95
2023 Donnhoff Felsenberg Riesling Grosses GewachsNahe, GERMANY$180. 00Bottle$2160.00 DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: CorkDonnhoff make the best wines in the Nahe region, and some of the finest anywhere in the world. While it was Helmut Donnhoff that launched this estate to worldwide attention, winemaking duties are now managed by his talented son, Cornelius. There's a deep understanding of the grand wines and grand vineyards that's been handed down through the generations. And given the enormous technical proficiency Cornelius has demonstrated so far, Donnhoff is sure to be at the top of the vinous hierarchy for years to come.
Other Reviews....
The 2023 Schlossböckelheimer Felsenberg Riesling trocken GG is beautifully pure, clear and bright or even coolish on the deep and complex nose that is still remarkably discreet but refined for this warm, volcanic terroir and offers elegant notes of melting stones and domestic seed fruits. Round, refined and elegant on the palate, this is a generous, juicy and fruity Riesling with fine tannins and a long, intense, spicy and aromatic, finely saline and mineral finish. This is a mouth-filling, complex and textured Riesling with crunchy tannins on the finish. It's a superb 2023 that should develop beautifully over the years in the bottle. 12.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted in August and October 2024. Drink 2025-2050.
95 points
Stephan Reinhardt - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 Riesling Schlossböckelheimer Felsenberg Felsentürmchen Grosses Gewächs is picked in the fully south-facing site of porphyry and melaphyr. Cornelius Dönnhoff says this is the most challenging site to work, simply because the stones are so hard and unforgiving, retaining almost no water. Thus, a year like 2023 was brilliant for this site. It is always the first GG site to be harvested because the rock retains heat from the day. Tender reduction still casts a flinty spell on the nose. Lovely savor implies crushed citrus foliage merged into iron oxide on the nose. The palate is taut, citric, bright with immense linearity, moving with absolute ease and direction, with energy and punch, towards a zesty, cool finish, long, sustained, all with savor and saltiness. The 2023 is a total joy of clarity, direction and stony poise. This is so elegant, so slender, so powerful, and no, this is not a contradiction. (Bone-dry) Drink 2034-2070.
96-98 points
Anne Krebiehl MW - VinousRadically smoky and massively structured in spite of being only medium-bodied, this astonishingly dry riesling expresses the personality of this volcanic site with great authority and precision. So much spice, structure and hardness in the positive sense, meaning that this is not a wine for the faint of heart. Massive power in the imposing finish, yet absolutely clean and bright. Drink or hold.
98 points
Stuart Pigott - JamesSuckling.com















































