2024 ChaLou Riesling, Orange

A wild fermented off-dry style. This is bursting with finger lime spheres, crab apples flesh and mock orange blossoms. A hint of mangosteen and cracked quartz. The palate tumble turns with lacy phenolic pith that draws your palate to experience what the true meaning of succulence is. Do not be fooled by the thimbles of fruit nectar sweetness, as the woven mesh of texture takes centre stage. A love affair with riesling is detected in every ounce of this wine. A true beauty, that will age gorgeously over the course of 10–15 years, and at a steal of a price!

96 points Special Value Shanteh Wale winecompanion.com.au February 2025

ChaLou Riesling from the cool-climate region of Orange is a striking and elegant wine crafted by winemakers Nadja Wallington and Steve Mobbs. Known for its vibrant acidity and pure fruit expression, Orange provides the ideal conditions for Riesling, allowing the grapes to develop intense aromatics while retaining their natural freshness. Nadja and Steve, with their combined expertise and dedication to showcasing the unique terroir of the region, have created a wine that reflects both precision and balance.

The fruit is sourced from carefully tended vineyards in Orange, where the cool nights and sunny days allow for slow, even ripening. The winemaking process is designed to preserve the purity of the fruit, with minimal intervention. Fermentation in stainless steel ensures that the fresh citrus and floral notes shine, while a touch of lees aging adds a hint of texture and complexity.

On the nose, the wine presents an aromatic bouquet of lime, lemon zest, and green apple, alongside delicate floral notes of jasmine and a touch of mineral freshness. On the palate, it’s crisp and lively, with zesty acidity that keeps the wine fresh and focused. The citrus fruit flavors are complemented by hints of stone fruit, like peach, and a distinct minerality that adds depth and complexity. The finish is clean and refreshing, with lingering citrus and a touch of flinty elegance.

This Riesling is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. It’s perfect with seafood—think oysters, grilled prawns, or fish tacos—as well as lighter dishes like Thai or Vietnamese cuisine. It also pairs beautifully with fresh cheeses or a simple green salad, making it a great choice for a variety of occasions.