Summer Wine Guide 2023

Riesling

2023 Rieslingfreak No 12 Riesling

G 97

This stunning High Eden Riesling instantly delivers with tense aromas of wet stones, apricot, spice and kaffir lime with youthful impact and energy. An explosive palate follows, that vitality and power remaining strong while keeping its composure through to a finish of exceptional length. Benchmark Eden Riesling. 2026–2038 2023 Rieslingfreak No 99 Riesling G 97 This exquisite and unique Riesling, made from 80% Watervale and 20% Eden Valley fruit, has enjoyed 12 months in neutral oak and is beautifully expressive with pithy, rosewater and lime building towards more melon, pear and nectarine against a savoury oak backdrop. Then lively and bright with juicy acidity and grip providing a strong backbone through to a long, strong finish. Great food wine and will age well, although Intense bouquet of preserved lemon, wet stone, verbena. Bright and zesty with superb intensity and drive. Finishes long with an attractive grippy, minerally flourish. Now–2033+ 2023 Pikes The Merle Riesling G 96 Pale in colour before delivering a powerful yet refined Clare expression bursting with composed lime pith and mineral with an exotic touch of mandarin skin in the background. Tightly wound, it then delivers a zesty burst of acidity with distinctive spicy and stony tones, finishing long and strong. 2030–2038 2023 Henschke Julius Riesling G 96 Pale colour. Intense grapefruit, tonic water, lemon curd aromas with hint verbena notes. Well concentrated grapefruit, lemon curd, lime cordial flavours, fine loose-knit chalky textures, very attractive mid-palate volume and fresh cutting acidity. All the elements in excellent balance. Keep for a while as this has great cellaring potential. 2024–2034 already in its prime. 2023–2030 2023 Castle Rock Estate A & W Riesling G 96