Riesling – New Release
Barry Weinman: 9th October 2015
Riesling must surely be Australia’s best value grape variety. Refreshing in its youth, yet capable of developing wonderful complexity and richness with age.
Riesling can also be made in a variety of styles, from bone-dry to intensely sweet, with all styles in between. It was suggested recently that Champagne was the most versatile of wine styles, but surely Riesling deserves this title, as it can be consumed on its own, or with all manner of food styles.
Reviewed
Pewsey Vale – Riesling – The Contours – 2009 (18+). Lime, minerals, slate, with the first signs of complexity and richness from 6 years in bottle. Steely, lemony acid on a palate that is bright and long. There is also a touch of phenolic richness to close. Drinking a treat now, or any time over the next 10 years. (RRP $35).
Singlefile – Riesling – Mt Barker/Great Southern – 2015 (18.5). A touch of retained CO2 as demonstrated by a slight effervescence in the glass. Fragrant lime and lemon zest aromas. There is lovely mouth-feel with near seamless palate transition. Very long and fine, this is a delicate, finely balanced wine. (RRP $30).
Singlefile – Riesling – Porongorup – 2015 (18). Delicate, fragrant and perfumed. The palate is refined and elegant. The pristine fruit is of decent quality, though not quite as intense as its sister wine from Mt Barker. There is a near seamless quality on the palate that builds depth with air. Drying finish. (RRP $25).