Clos Clare Watervale Riesling 2012
12.6%, Screwcap, $25
Source: Sample
www.closeclare.com.au

Whilst I’m not convinced that, as Tyson Stelzer suggested, the 2012 Clare Rieslings are the best since 2002, there is no questioning that the open, ripe style of this vintage is appealing. It still strikes me as more of a red vintage than whites (and early reports about the colours and depth of flavour in the reds are also suggesting it is a rouge year).

This Riesling is sourced from the Clos Clare vineyard which is tended by the Barry brothers (of Jim Barry fame). They’re smart operators and the wines show it too. Speaking of, I note this is (hand) picked and chilled for 24 hours before whole bunch pressing, a process which is arguably absolute best practice Clare Riesling winemaking from the get-go.

Unsurprisingly this a very handy wine too (again), if just a little too open and gentle to be ‘classic’. That might be a little harsh actually for what makes this wine so easy and unforced is that it appears to be driven solely by natural acidity (rather than that pesky added stuff). As a result, the style here is almost oxidative such is its mouthfilling fruit profile. What marks it as classy Riesling though is the length, the drive and the fact that you can’t help but reach for another glass if you’re thirsty.

Good stuff, yet agin and smiles all round.

Drink: 2012-2022+
Score: 18.3/20 93/100
Would I buy it? Yes definitely.