2022 Shut the Gate Estate Block Riesling, Clare Valley

This comes with intensity and raciness. A powerful yet compact expression of precision and steely acid spine. Scents of lime, grapefruit, bath salts and sage. Flavours in a tightly wound frame of chalky acidity, briny tang and lemon-on-green-apple fruitiness, albeit racy and skeletal all up. Woosh! A live one here. Set your palates to stunned for the acid bomb. It's refreshing and done well in its style.

93 points Special Value Mike Bennie winecompanion.com.au

Shut the Gate Estate Block Riesling from Clare Valley is a standout white that offers incredible value while showcasing the region's exceptional ability to produce crisp, aromatic Riesling. With its cool climate, Clare Valley is one of the premier regions in Australia for Riesling, and this wine is a perfect example of why it's so highly regarded. Crafted by the talented winemaker, Shut the Gate focuses on preserving the pure fruit expression and bright acidity that makes Clare Valley Riesling so special.

The grapes for this Riesling are carefully sourced from the Estate Block, where the combination of soil and climate allows the Riesling grapes to ripen slowly, retaining their natural acidity and developing vibrant, citrus-driven flavors. The winemaking process focuses on minimal intervention to preserve the freshness of the fruit, with fermentation taking place in stainless steel to maintain the wine's crispness and purity.

In the glass, Shut the Gate Estate Block Riesling presents a pale straw color with green tinges, indicating its youth and freshness. The nose is aromatic and expressive, with aromas of lime zest, lemon sherbet, and green apple, complemented by floral notes of jasmine and a subtle mineral edge that reflects the region’s terroir.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with vibrant acidity and a refreshing, crisp texture. The citrus flavors are lively and bright, with lime and lemon taking center stage, while the green apple adds a touch of sweetness. There’s a touch of minerality that adds depth and complexity to the palate, giving the wine a clean, dry finish that lingers pleasantly.

This Riesling is incredibly food-friendly, making it a great choice for a wide variety of dishes. It pairs beautifully with fresh seafood, such as oysters, prawns, or grilled fish, as well as light salads, goat cheese, or Thai cuisine. Its acidity also makes it a great match for spicy dishes, such as Indian curries or Sichuan stir-fries, adding versatility to its food-pairing potential. For anyone looking for great value and an exceptional expression of Clare Valley Riesling, this wine is a fantastic choice.