2023 Greywacke Riesling, Marlborough

Ripe, almost tropical with mangosteen and passionfruit aromas, this explodes on the palate with sweet exotic fruit. Decadent expression with noticeable sweetness on the palate yet held tightly in check by driving acidity and phenolic structure to finish medium-dry. A blockbuster style of riesling that is packed full of flavour. 14 Jan 2025 Drink 2025–2033

93 points Stephen Wong MW therealreview.com

From the windswept valleys and sunlit river terraces of Marlborough comes a Riesling that perfectly captures the thoughtful, quietly confident style of Kevin Judd. Best known as the founding winemaker behind Cloudy Bay, Judd created Greywacke as a deeply personal project, named after the ancient stone that underpins much of the region’s soils. His philosophy leans toward texture, site expression and drinkability rather than overt showiness, and this Riesling reflects that beautifully. Fruit is sourced from select vineyards where cool nights and long growing seasons allow flavours to build slowly while retaining piercing natural acidity.

Pale straw with green flashes, the wine opens with lifted aromas of lime zest, green apple and white nectarine threaded with jasmine, wet stone and a delicate hint of honeysuckle. There is an inviting purity to the fruit. The palate glides between gentle sweetness and vibrant citrus tension, creating a style that feels both refreshing and quietly layered. Notes of lemon sherbet, crunchy pear and slate like minerality carry through a long, mouthwatering finish that keeps you coming back for another taste.

This is a Riesling that suits real life moments as much as serious contemplation. Think sunny afternoons, bare feet on cool decking and a chilled glass within easy reach, or perhaps spicy Thai green curry, fresh oysters with finger lime, or crispy pork belly with apple and fennel. Beautifully approachable now yet capable of developing toast, kerosene and preserved citrus nuances over the next eight to twelve years in the cellar. Marlborough Riesling at its most authentic and engaging.