2023 Frankland Estate Isolation Ridge Riesling, Frankland River

One of the great rieslings of Australia. This is textural as much as pure, with lime blossom, ginger flower and a touch of beeswax. Flavours of Bickford's lime cordial, lemon curd, mandarin and zest caress the palate; the talcy-fine acidity is lipsmacking.

96 points Special Value Jane Faulkner winecompanion.com.au

Light lemon colour. Cumquat, lime zest and crushed shell aromas. Intensity and focus are the first things noted as it drives across the palate. Notes of exotic flowers, lime and slate sit in the core while it brims with fine, racy acidity and touches of phenolic grip into the incredibly long finish. A superb riesling that will drink well now and for many years into the future. Drink 2024–2039 13 Jun 2024

96 points Stuart Knox therealreview.com

#2 of 53 2023 Riesling from Great Southern

One of the very best Isolation Ridge rieslings produced. It’s from an exceptional vintage showing the pristine purity and minerally tension of great rieslings. Comes from a combination of clones planted in 1988. Now this is not your usual riesling. It was left on lees for nine months and about 10% was matured in oak. The result is a wine of tremendous texture, with an intricate weave of fine acid and intensely flavoured fruit. Has a crunchy vibrant minerality on the finish. Exceptional wine.

97 points rayjordanwine.com.au

This wine was made from 100% Riesling grown in the Isolation Ridge vineyard at Frankland Estate. Riesling vines from two different clones were planted in 1988 on undulating northern and eastern facing slopes with duplex soils of ironstone gravel over a clay sub-soil. A number of trellis systems are used through the vineyard. The vineyard is situated 256 meters above sea level. The cool nights and long slow ripening periods typical of the Frankland River region allow maximum flavour development while maintaining the distinctive vibrant acidity for which Rieslings from this region are renowned. The vineyard is farmed according to certified organic principles and this is reflected in the clarity and complexity of the pristine fruit from the vineyard.

Frankland Estate Isolation Ridge Riesling from Frankland River is a benchmark Australian Riesling, celebrated for its purity, precision, and expression of terroir. Sourced from the estate’s organically farmed Isolation Ridge Vineyard, this wine reflects the unique combination of ironstone gravel soils, cool climate, and meticulous vineyard management by winemakers Hunter Smith and Brian Kent.

In the glass, it shines pale straw with green hues. The nose is vibrant and intensely aromatic, offering layers of lime zest, lemon blossom, and crisp green apple, complemented by hints of jasmine, wet slate, and a touch of white pepper. There’s a delicate flinty edge that speaks to the vineyard’s ironstone-rich soils.

On the palate, Isolation Ridge Riesling is crisp, taut, and beautifully structured. Juicy citrus and orchard fruit flavors are balanced by mouthwatering acidity and a fine, chalky minerality. The wine’s texture is silky yet refreshing, with a long, clean finish that leaves lingering notes of lime pith, crushed rock, and subtle spice.

This Riesling is a natural partner for seafood—think freshly shucked oysters, grilled prawns, or pan-seared scallops. It also pairs beautifully with spicy Asian dishes, goat cheese, and vibrant salads. While delicious in its youth, it has the structure to evolve gracefully for 10–15 years, developing complex toasty, honeyed notes while retaining its vibrant core.

Frankland Estate Isolation Ridge Riesling stands as one of Australia’s finest examples of the variety, showcasing the brilliance of Frankland River’s cool-climate winemaking.