2023 Kate Hill Riesling, Coal River Valley

Kate Hill Riesling from Tasmania’s Coal River Valley is a precise, finely etched cool-climate white that showcases the tension, purity and citrus-driven elegance of Tasmanian Riesling at its best. Grown in the sheltered hillsides just outside of Richmond, where cool nights and long daylight hours preserve acidity and build complexity, this wine reflects the meticulous winemaking approach of Kate Hill, one of Tasmania’s quietly exceptional producers.

The grapes are hand picked and whole bunch pressed, then fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel to retain aromatic clarity and mineral precision. The result is a dry, vibrant Riesling that leans toward the Alsatian end of the spectrum in texture, while staying firmly grounded in Tasmanian brightness and drive.

The nose opens with lemon pith, lime blossom, wet slate and hints of green apple and white florals. The palate is taut and linear, showing crisp citrus fruit, grapefruit zest, and a touch of crushed quartz minerality. There’s a clean acid line that gives structure and length, finishing dry, saline and focused.

Food pairing: ideal with oysters, grilled scallops, Thai fish cakes, or fresh Vietnamese salads. Also excellent with goat cheese, herbed chicken or lightly spiced lentil dishes.

Cellar potential: drinking beautifully now but will age gracefully over 10 to 15 years, developing honeyed notes, toast, and savoury complexity while retaining its acid backbone.