2024 Cooter & Cooter Watervale Riesling, Clare Valley

As usual, from two small parcels on classic red clay over limestone, fermented separately and coolly, with some pressings blended back when assembled. This is all about purity of expression, refined and racy, but without austerity. Lemon leaves, green apple, lime pith and a stony minerality. It’s pretty classic stuff, but there’s typically much thought given to texture and acid harmony in this wine, and so too here.

93 points Special Value Marcus Ellis winecompanion.com.au

Cooter & Cooter Watervale Riesling is crisp, racy, and packed with citrus energy—everything you want from a Clare Valley classic, with a little extra flair. Made by winemaking couple Mel and David Cooter, this wine is all about purity and precision, showcasing the signature zingy lime and floral lift that makes Watervale such a revered subregion for Riesling.

The fruit is sourced from a single vineyard in Watervale, known for its elevated position, cool nights, and slate-rich soils. The winemaking is clean and minimal—cool fermentation in stainless steel, no oak, no tricks—just letting the site and the grape do the work.

It opens with aromas of fresh lime, green apple, jasmine and a touch of wet stone. The palate is electric, with juicy citrus, a hint of white peach, steely acidity and a mouthwatering, dry finish. There’s tension and texture here, but it stays refreshingly light on its feet.

Perfect with oysters, Thai salads, grilled prawns or anything salty and zesty. It’s the kind of wine that’s just as good on a sunny afternoon as it is with a proper dinner. Pure Clare Valley magic.