2023 Best’s Great Western Riesling

Riesling vines were first planted as part of Henry Best’s ‘Nursery Block’ vineyard in the 1860s. Subsequent plantings followed in 1944 (since removed), 1978 and 1998. Always very flavoursome and very age worthy, the Best’s Great Western Rieslings are renown for their beautiful balance, texture and aromatics.
The 2023 vintage was long and late with the first Riesling grapes being harvested in early March. This long cool vintage allowed fruit flavours to mature, while natural acidity was retained.
Brilliant water like core with highlights of green around the outskirts. The nose offers up a symphony of lime, red apple and orange blossom aromas which are trailed by hints of honeysuckle and delicate spice. Intensely flavoured, lime, red apple and mandarin fruits are underscored by zippy acidity with some honeysuckle and flinty mineral characters unwinding across the back half. Finishes dry to off dry with a long zesty aftertaste.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 11.5%

Other Reviews....
Victoria’s Great Western region is firmly established as one of the most consistent riesling growers (outside of traditional regions). Whiplash-fast out of the blocks, with its mix of citrus, apple and slate to the fore, this wine will coast through to 2034.
95 points
James Halliday's Top 100 Wines 2023

Excellent riesling, having moved well away from the the oft-domestic norm of battery-acid dryness and talcy acidity, some years ago. Succulent kaffir lime, baking apple, quince and nashi pear. A waft of phenolics as useful as the trickle of acidity, juicy and palpably natural. This draws the saliva from the mouth. Reaching for the next glass is auto-pilot. Bravo! Drink or hold. Screw cap.
93 points
JamesSuckling.com