The Reviews
Rieslingfreak No. 10 Zenit Riesling 2024
G 98
It takes a moment, like that split second that seems to last an eternity, before revealing fragrant jasmine, Tahitian lime, lemongrass and yuzu aromas. The palate is layers of pure citrus juice and refined chalky flavours. Like Luke Skywalker’s lightsabre, it cuts through effortlessly while irradiating pure light. Drink now–2046
Jim Barry Clarevale Cabernet Malbec 2021
G 96
Open the bottle and wait . . . Clarevale takes time to deliver, and when it does, it comes in almost stealth mode, ever so precise and alluring. There’s a perfume, the best word to describe the fine scent of red plum, blueberry, bramble, sage, violet, dried herbs and woodsmoke. On the palate it draws a fine line of tannin upon which is embedded an earthy, ferrous-mineral element – quite intriguing – alongside layers of elegant, long-living, well-delivered flavour. A modern Shiraz perfectly in balance. Drink now–2042 Jim Barry The Florita Riesling 2024 G 96 A treasured vineyard and piece of Clare Valley wine history with a most distinctive complexity and fineness of Riesling expression, The Florita never disappoints. The ’24 boasts alluring florals, lifted and aromatic, in spring blossom and white flowers – so darn pretty – that infiltrate every aspect of the wine together with citrus, bath salts and apple, all dressed in a flinty, dry acidity. Seems a simple recipe, but the seamless integration and overall balance is quite something. Florita brings focus and drive and an almost timeless sense of what it means to be Clare Riesling. All class. Drink now–2040 Jim Barry Spring Farm Block 73 Shiraz 2021 G 96 Another stealth bomb from the Barry brothers, one that definitely gets under your skin ever so quietly, but superbly, irresistibly well. Works against the trad model for Clare Shiraz, choosing a route that takes you down a path dressed in blue fruits, plum, black cherry, sage, aniseed, all firmly positioned and precise. Some light savoury meaty influences are flagged, chalky, fine tannins are in motion, spices are on alert, flavours are poised and fine and the overall effect is complex and super elegant. Will keep on keeping on. Drink now–2040
South Australia 2024
173
Powered by FlippingBook