2021 Harewood Estate Mount Barker Riesling, Great Southern

From a single vineyard in Mount Barker. The austerity of the acidity in this wine is an impressive thing. It hovers on the palate like a maglev train; slick, smooth and super-fast. This will age, but drinking this over the coming summer will be a tempting proposition.

92 points Erin Larkin winecompanion.com.au

Harewood Estate Mount Barker Riesling is a beautifully expressive take on Great Southern Riesling, offering a slightly broader, more aromatic style than Porongurup while retaining the region’s trademark freshness and line. Mount Barker sits a little lower and warmer than Porongurup, with undulating hills, gravelly loam over granite and a cool maritime influence that stretches the growing season. The result is Riesling with generosity of flavour, fine acidity and excellent balance.

Harewood Estate works closely with Mount Barker growers to highlight subregional character, and the approach in the cellar is deliberately restrained. Fruit is picked to preserve natural acidity, fermented cool in stainless steel and bottled dry without oak. The focus is on clarity and drinkability, allowing Mount Barker’s slightly riper profile to shine without losing tension.

In the glass, the wine is lifted and inviting. Lime zest, lemon curd and green apple lead, followed by white florals, citrus blossom and a faint talc like note. Compared to Porongurup, the aromatics feel a touch more open and expressive, while still remaining crisp and precise.

On the palate, Harewood Estate Mount Barker Riesling is dry, bright and beautifully balanced. Citrus and orchard fruit flavours flow through a fine, linear palate, supported by fresh acidity that gives length and energy. The texture is clean and chalky, finishing with lingering lime pith and a gentle mineral edge that keeps the wine refreshing and food friendly.

This is a Riesling made to drink and enjoy, but with enough structure to age. It pairs beautifully with oysters, seafood, Asian inspired dishes, fresh salads or spicy cuisine where acidity is key. Drinking very well now for its vibrancy and balance, it will also develop additional complexity over eight to twelve years.

Harewood Estate Mount Barker Riesling is precise, approachable and distinctly regional. A clear, confident expression of Mount Barker Riesling that showcases the diversity and quality of the Great Southern.