2023 Dry River Craighall Riesling, Martinborough

Intricate and detailed riesling with flavours ranging from lemon oil, mandarin seed and heritage apple to savoury pastry, sumac, spice market and shell minerality. This kaleidoscope is driven by laser-like acidity which winds the mid-weight flavours around itself on the tightly bound, off-dry finish. Fantastic balance. Very youthful and slightly austere currently, it is a very refined expression of riesling and will age effortlessly for a decade or more 14 Jan 2025 Drink 2026–2037

95 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

Dry River Craighall Riesling from Martinborough is a masterclass in precision, purity, and longevity, crafted by one of New Zealand’s most revered estates. Established in 1979, Dry River was a pioneer in Martinborough’s wine story, and the Craighall vineyard—planted on free-draining gravelly soils over deep alluvial deposits—has become a benchmark site for Riesling in the region. These older vines, deeply rooted in the region’s cool, wind-swept climate, yield fruit of extraordinary concentration and balance.

The wine opens with an intricate bouquet of lime zest, mandarin, and green apple, layered with white blossom, jasmine, and a faint hint of wet stone. The palate is tightly wound yet deeply flavoured, showing crystalline citrus and orchard fruit alongside subtle herbal nuances and saline minerality. A razor-fine acid line threads through the wine, promising remarkable ageing potential of 15–20 years, during which it will develop richer honeyed and toasty notes without losing its electric freshness.

This Riesling is an exceptional partner for delicate yet flavourful dishes such as sashimi with ponzu, steamed mussels with lemongrass, or Vietnamese rice paper rolls. It also excels alongside goat’s cheese salads, freshly shucked oysters, and light white meat dishes dressed with citrus or herbs.