2021 Pauletts 109 Reserve Riesling, Clare Valley

An extra long, heavy, Alsace-style bottle may be difficult to stack in wine racks, but it does endow this outstanding drop with an appearance of real gravitas. The wine within doesn't disappoint either. It's a classic, although still closed up in youth. Aromas of lime and lemon meet complexing hints of lees and light reduction on the nose, and the beautifully intense palate has that disarming interplay of delicacy with quiet underlying power that marks the best of the region. It finishes long and dry, tangy with lemony acidity and rather austere overall. A riesling to put away in the cellar in anticipation of great things to come. 19 Mar 2022 Drink 2024–2037

96 points Ralph Kyte-Powell therealreview.com

Savoury, herbal and muscular, this has cheesecloth, salted limes, preserved citrus, green apples and brine. It's full bodied and intense for a riesling, with plenty of heft and flow.

94 points Erin Larkin winecompanion.com.au

The Pauletts 109 Reserve Riesling from Clare Valley is a remarkable wine that showcases the purity and elegance of this iconic Australian region. Named in honor of the winery’s address, this Reserve Riesling is a testament to Pauletts’ dedication to crafting exceptional Rieslings with depth, complexity, and longevity.

On the nose, the wine offers an aromatic bouquet of citrus blossom, lime zest, and green apple, with underlying hints of jasmine, wet slate, and a whisper of honey. These aromas reflect the vibrant fruit and mineral-driven character that Clare Valley Riesling is celebrated for.

The palate is crisp and precise, with a backbone of racy acidity that balances the wine’s concentrated flavors of lemon, grapefruit, and white peach. Subtle notes of flinty minerality and a delicate salinity enhance its complexity. The finish is long, refreshing, and elegantly dry, showcasing both finesse and intensity.

The 109 Reserve Riesling is crafted from premium vineyard parcels in the Clare Valley, where the region’s cool nights and warm days create the ideal conditions for growing Riesling. The wine is fermented and aged in stainless steel to preserve its pristine fruit character and lively acidity. Pauletts’ careful winemaking ensures a wine of exceptional purity and aging potential.

This Riesling pairs wonderfully with fresh seafood, such as oysters or prawns, as well as spicy Asian dishes like Thai green curry. It also complements light vegetarian dishes and goat cheese. While delightful in its youth, the Pauletts 109 Reserve Riesling has the capacity to age gracefully for 10–15 years, developing deeper honeyed and toasty notes over time.