There's a good vibe around 2008 Clare Rieslings. Indeed, the Grosset newsletter suggests this is the best Watervale since 2002, which is music to my ears.
An aroma that initially reminded me of Sauvignon Blanc not so much for its profile as its impact and immediacy. A punch of lime and leafiness hits you each time you sniff this wine, and it's a great antidote to an army of insipid "classic dry whites" and Pinot Grigios invading our bistros. I can't imagine anyone not having a strong reaction to this based purely on the nose. More importantly, this is a really positive wine, one that wears its flamboyance on its sleeve. It's the Versace of Australian wine -- flashy, but immaculately tailored.
The palate's greatest feature is its intensity of flavour, which is frankly remarkable. It strikes early and builds almost instantly to a climax of lime juice and sherbet-like notes that wash through the mid-palate. There's so much impact that it takes a moment to realise the wine's structure is really quite restrained in the context of the style. There's acid, no doubt, but it's fine and supports the wine rather than overwhelming it. The flavour profile becomes more complex on the after palate, with some herbal notes introducing themselves. A gently tapered finish with just the slightest hint of fruit sweetness closes the wine well.
I'm a huge fan of our dry Riesling styles and this wine both justifies my taste and provides great sensual pleasure. It's a win-win. Brilliant value.
Price: $A31
Closure: Stelvin
Date tasted: November 2008
Excellent. I ordered one of those Christmas white 6 packs from the mailing list - couldnt resist two of each Riesling and the SSB. Its like a personal Chrismtas present that will show up on my door mid December.
That's a very nice Christmas present to yourself. :) They really are such excellent, representative wines. I have a Polish Hill in the stash and look forward to tasting it soon.
Have tried the Polish and will pick up some of the Springvale too. I reckon 2008 might just go down in the books for Grosset riesling again.
Will be interested to see the two tasting notes up together (Watervale v Polish). Always a fun comparison. You'll have to crack that other bottle soon.
Cheers jeremy
Yes, I'm keen to try the sister wine soon. What did you think of it?
Loved it!!! But, for my palate, its one for the cellar. I reckon its going to improve for a long time. I gave it the same points as the 02, so I guess that says a fair bit :)
I tried the Polish Hill last night and I'd agree with you, it's more obviously an ageing style. But I guess it's a matter of taste which one might prefer, as they're both brilliant examples of their respective styles. I found the Polish Hill a bit harder to understand as a wine, as it's more complex and structurally challenging than the Springvale. Both fab wines, though.
Shall post my note shortly.