2022 Shut The Gate Rosie’s Patch Watervale Riesling, Clare Valley

Growing conditions has taken this Watervale vineyard to new heights in quality. Intense tropical and lime flavours with almost a mineral grip finishing long carried on bright natural lone of lively acidity. For sheer bang for bucks this wine is hard to beat and is already copping plenty of attention.

95 points Canberra International Riesling Challenge 2022

Shut The Gate Rosie’s Patch Watervale Riesling from Clare Valley is a vibrant, award-winning wine that truly shines, especially with its recent win at the 2022 Canberra International Wine Challenge. This Riesling, from the renowned Watervale sub-region of the Clare Valley, is a beautiful example of the region’s ability to produce Riesling with precision, balance, and mouthwatering freshness. Shut The Gate Wines, a family-owned winery, has quickly established itself as a producer of high-quality, expressive wines, and Rosie’s Patch is one of their standout offerings.

The name “Rosie’s Patch” refers to a special vineyard block, known for its ideal growing conditions. The Watervale sub-region is famous for its cool, elevated vineyards, where long sunny days and cool nights allow Riesling to retain its vibrant acidity and aromatic intensity. Shut The Gate’s commitment to sustainable farming and minimal intervention winemaking ensures that the true character of the vineyard and the fruit comes through in every bottle.

On the nose, Shut The Gate Rosie’s Patch Watervale Riesling is expressive and aromatic, with a burst of citrus—lime, lemon, and grapefruit—accompanied by green apple and subtle floral notes. There’s also a hint of minerality, characteristic of Watervale’s rich soils, which adds a layer of complexity and freshness. The fragrance alone invites you to take a sip and enjoy the wine’s depth and vibrancy.

On the palate, the wine is crisp, clean, and mouthwatering. It’s medium-bodied with a zesty acidity that gives it great freshness and focus. The citrus flavors dominate—think lime and lemon zest—accompanied by juicy green apple and a touch of stone fruit like nectarine. There’s a refreshing mineral quality that runs through the wine, adding a layer of depth and complexity. The finish is clean and long, with lingering citrus notes that make it a satisfying, refreshing experience from start to finish.

The 2022 Canberra International Wine Challenge win is a testament to the quality and excellence of this Riesling. Shut The Gate Rosie’s Patch Watervale Riesling is a perfect match for seafood, particularly oysters, prawns, or grilled fish. It also pairs wonderfully with Asian cuisine, such as Thai or Vietnamese dishes, where the crisp acidity and citrus flavors complement the fresh, vibrant flavors of the food. It’s also great with light salads, goat cheese, or even spicy dishes, making it an incredibly versatile wine.