2025 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.

An Outstanding Great Western Riesling that boasts terrific drive, zest and concentration.

Brilliant water like core with greenish tinged edges. Intensely aromatic, the nose features lime, red apple and citrus scents which mix with whiffs of orange blossom, faint honeysuckle and slatey mineral notes. Boasting terrific drive, zest and concentration, mouth watering lime, citrus and green to red apple fruits are underscored by racy, slatey mineral infused acidity. Delicate mandarin and honeysuckle flavours also make an appearance. The finish is long, dry and zippy.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 11.5%

Other Reviews….
Grampians riesling at its very best. It defines varietal intensity but so too a fine and utterly delicious delicacy of touch. Aromatic, spicy, apple and lime scented with a lemon-lime essence quality, almost crystalline, that impresses and resonates deep. The palate brings an airy, powdery expression that runs deep and long and intense in lemon-lime citrus, grapefruit pith, apple and gingery spice married to a pure and lively acidity. Runs long, stays bright and will age and keep on going.
Drink by 2040.
97 points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

The 2025 Riesling comes from cuttings from the mother vines planted on the property (still producing, mind you) planted in 1866. It's an incredibly special site in Victoria, and they are—as an unnecessary aside—responsible for my absolute favorite Pinot Meunier, anywhere: the Old Vine Pinot Meunier. So here, the 2025 Riesling leads with lime and lilac, green apple, nashi pear and saline acidity. This is gorgeous. I love it. The acidity will preserve it for a long time to come. It drinks nicely now too, however. 11.5 % alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2026-2036.
95 points
Erin Larkin - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate

2025 Canberra International Riesling Challenge Elite/Gold award and the Trophy for:

• Best Australian Riesling

• Best Dry Riesling

• Best Wine of the Challenge