caused 18 years of frustration within the Barry family because it was not possible to reference the vineyard in any meaningful way. But, for those in the know, Florita has always remained a prime Clare Valley vineyard site. Anonymously it contributed to the increasing reputation of Jim Barry’s Watervale Rieslings during the 1980s, 1990s, and beyond. Once trademark issues were settled (by dint of a trademark lapse), Peter Barry was able to launch the first 2004 Jim Barry Florita Riesling in homage to the vineyard’s past glory and in anticipation of a distinguished future. With a track record of nearly two decades, it has become one of the Clare Valley’s few recognised ‘Grand Cru’ Rieslings. Jim Barry The Florita Riesling is a micro-selection and represents the most exquisite parcels from the near 80-acre vineyard. Most of the vineyard’s production goes into Jim Barry’s highly undervalued and spectacularly good value Watervale Rieslings with Florita generally sourced from Block 26 in the north-western corner of the vineyard, which is the location of the original 1962 plantings. Growing at 398 metres, the Florita vines are well exposed and ventilated. Typically, they are planted on loamy soils over free draining calcareous siltstones derived from Mintaro slate which forms the bedrock. The root system reaches far down, which probably contributes to the nervosity and mineral quality often found in the Florita and Watervale Riesling styles. Typically, the fruit is handpicked and then destemmed and crushed. After draining and a light press through a membrane press, the juice is cold-fermented in stainless steel vats to retain fruit purity, vineyard character and preservation of natural acidity. Over 50% of production is held back for release at between 7 and 20 years of age. Austere, minerally, and vibrant, The Florita Rieslings, were made by winemaker Tom Barry, in part to honour Vickery’s DW style. The youthful precision is massively impressive. Although many bottles are inevitably enjoyed at an elemental age, there is always more to come. With bottle-age, the wines fill out with an increasing overlapping of aromas and flavours. They develop more richness and volume while the acidity binds and lengthens the palate. The alcohols are neatly balanced and create a roundness and appealing vinosity. The screw cap protects the wine from oxidation and promotes gentle maturation and freshness. These are long lived and fine-boned wines and represent a lovely expression of the Clare Valley Riesling aesthetic.
Florita Riesling
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