2024 Best's Riesling, Great Western

Best’s Riesling from Great Western is a crisp, elegant wine that showcases the incredible potential of one of Australia’s coolest wine regions. Great Western, nestled in Victoria’s renowned wine country, offers the perfect conditions for growing high-quality Riesling, with cool nights and sunny days helping the fruit retain its natural acidity and vibrancy. Best’s, a winery with a history dating back to 1866, has long been a pioneer in the region, producing wines that reflect both the terroir and the meticulous attention to detail in the cellar.

Sourced from the estate’s oldest vineyards, Best’s Riesling is made with minimal intervention to preserve the purity and freshness of the fruit. The grapes are carefully handpicked, and the fermentation process is done in stainless steel to maintain the crisp, clean character that defines Riesling. The result is a wine that’s bright, fresh, and full of flavor, with the hallmark balance of fruit and acidity that makes this variety so special.

A vibrant, pale straw color and an expressive nose of citrus—lime, lemon, and grapefruit—alongside delicate floral notes of jasmine and a subtle minerality that hints at the limestone-rich soils of Great Western. On the palate, it’s lively and refreshing, with zesty acidity and a light, crisp texture that makes it incredibly drinkable. The citrus fruit flavors are bright and clean, with a touch of green apple and a hint of honeyed sweetness that adds complexity. The finish is dry and crisp, with a lingering note of lime zest and a touch of flinty minerality that gives it a refreshing, clean finish.

It pairs beautifully with seafood, particularly oysters, prawns, or grilled fish, as well as lighter Asian dishes like Thai or Vietnamese cuisine. It also complements fresh salads, goat cheese, or even spicy dishes, where its acidity and freshness can balance out the flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it with a meal or sipping it on its own, this Riesling offers both immediate pleasure and the potential for aging, developing even more complexity with time.