Dry River Craighall Riesling 2023

In their words - Riesling was rewarded by the rainfall and mild summer temperatures, yielding exquisite aromatics, striking purity, and class upon exposure to oxygen and temperature in the glass. Aromas of spring blossoms, powdered sugar, alyssum, rock melon, grain, vanillin, clover, and riverbed abound. On the palate, a linear stripe expands like an oil drop in water, driven by vibrant acidity lingering deep in the senses. Texture, from flavoursome phenolics and balanced residual sugar, envelops the purity, revealing Granny Smith apple, white pepper, yellow plum, and white nectarine flavours, while reintroducing the aromatics. This youthful, energetic wine promises evolution, rewarding patience for up to 10 years.

Critics thoughts - '...layers upon layers of flavour'

The 2023 Craighall Vineyard Riesling is lean and leesy, with cheesecloth and citrus rind, green apple and jasmine flowers. In the mouth, the wine carries a little residual sweetness, and this is offset nicely but the savory phenolics and open-weave structure from the time in barrel. All in all, this is a complex number, with layers upon layers of flavor and impressive length. Recommended. It’s a testament to a great vineyard performing in all seasons and prevailing through change in the business too. Significant credit is due to the new owner (since 2021) who has seamlessly transitioned the business with the help and ambition of winemaker Ben McNab. In fact, you’d hardly know there’s been a change. That’s a great thing. 12% alcohol, sealed under Diam.  95 points Robert Parker Wine Advocate, 24 Jan 2025