Rieslingfreak

No.33 Reverence of Riesling 2023

8.9

Light silver/gold color. Aromas of lemon, petrol and white flowers. Tropical fruit, green apple and lemon/lime fruit flavors with a noticeable mineral note. Long and lingering finish with a bit of bitterness. Chalky texture, bracing/eye popping acidity and extremely fruit forward. Food friendly and refreshing. — a month ago

Paul, Tom and 2 others liked this

J. Baumer

Rheingau Riesling 2019

Aaron Tan

8.9

An imposter! If not for my ability to read labels, I would have never placed this in Germany. From the petrol notes that's pervasive in Australian rieslings, to the modern label and stelvin screwcap typical in the land down under, I could have easily called this a Clare Valley off-dry riesling with a little age if blinded. Apple, lime, florals, and petrol on the nose. The sugar acid balance does give it a more "Germanic" feel (Kabinett?), but that's not uncommon in Australia these days (John Hughes' Rieslingfreak No.5 comes to mind). Fruity and generous on the palate, with riper fruits, honeyed notes, and mineral undertones. Enjoyable. An imposter for sure, but a welcomed one. — 3 years ago

Ellen, Daniel P. and 14 others liked this

Bob McDonald

Just a footnote to this discussion - last year I opened a 2012 Grosset Polish Hill Riesling from the Clare Valley. Many good judges consider this as our premium dry Riesling. There was not a hint of petrol/kerosene aromas. My notes are here on Delectable from last September 2021.

Aaron Tan

@Bob McDonald Good to know! My experience with Polish Hill has been mixed with respect to TDN to be frank. Could be storage too. I actually still have a bottle of 11' and 12' each in the cellar back in Melbourne. Will definitely be drinking them once borders make it easier to travel, though I can't be certain that's anytime soon.

Aaron Tan

Just to note too, I'm still very much a believer in Australian riesling, but I feel water stress and the sun has not been favouring the variety over the years. It just means growing riesling in Australia's a little more challenging than in other places.