2019 Clos Clare Watervale Riesling Museum Release, Clare Valley

This is archetypal. Quintessential. Classic. A taut thread of lime juice, grapefruit and candied lemon zest woven by a spindle of pumice, slate and bright acidity. Transparent. A flowing stream of flavour. Inimitably Clare. This will fill out with bottle age.

94 points Special Value Ned Goodwin MW winecompanion.com.au

Clos Clare Watervale Riesling Museum Release from the Clare Valley is a stunning showcase of aged Australian Riesling at its finest. From a tiny 5-acre corner of the famous Florita vineyard, this wine reflects both place and pedigree. Winemaker Tom Barry, third generation of the Barry family and custodian of the Clos Clare label since its purchase in 2007, has consistently crafted some of the region’s most expressive and cellar-worthy Rieslings.

The Museum Release is pulled from carefully cellared stock, allowing the taut, citrus-driven character of Watervale fruit to evolve into something beautifully complex. What begins in youth as lime, talc, and flint matures into layers of beeswax, dried herbs, and toasted brioche, without sacrificing the piercing acidity and mineral drive that defines great Clare Riesling.

Watervale is known for its high elevation, ancient limestone soils and cool nights, which preserve natural acidity and give the wines tension and longevity. This bottling wears its age gracefully, offering the chance to experience a mature Clare Riesling without the wait.

Pair with spanner crab, lemongrass-poached chicken, or Thai green curry. It also holds well with a cheese board featuring aged Manchego or Comté.