2024 Nick O’Leary White Rocks Riesling, Canberra District

While the fruit source for White Rocks has varied, it seems now that it’s all estate grown off the Heywood vineyards – the oldest (26 years old) and best blocks. It’s excellent; a wine of purity, detail and beautiful balance. Lemon blossom and ginger flower, Meyer lemon zest and juice with some finger lime pop to the acidity. There’s also some texture and depth and the finish is long and precise.

96 points Special Value Jane Faulkner winecompanion.com.au

Nick O’Leary White Rocks Riesling from the Canberra District is a razor-sharp, beautifully structured dry Riesling that has quickly become one of the standout wines of the region, and one of the most exciting examples of the variety in Australia. Grown on the rugged, high-altitude soils of Murrumbateman, this wine is all about purity, precision, and stunning mineral drive.

White Rocks is Nick O’Leary’s top-tier Riesling, sourced from a single vineyard planted on lean, rocky soils that limit yields and intensify character. The vines here dig deep into decomposed granite, producing fruit with piercing acidity, tightly wound citrus, and a signature flinty backbone that defines this cuvée. The vineyard’s cool climate and elevation bring a long growing season, helping retain freshness and build fine-boned structure.

Winemaking is minimal to preserve the clarity of fruit and site. Grapes are hand harvested, gently pressed, and fermented cool in stainless steel with no oak and no fluff, just laser-focused Riesling made with intent and precision.

In the glass, expect lifted aromas of lime juice, green apple, jasmine, and wet slate. The palate is electric, with citrus zest, crunchy acidity, and a fine, powdery texture that finishes long, dry, and utterly refreshing. There's an almost riesling-purity-meets-Burgundy-structure feel to it.

Nick O’Leary White Rocks is a cellar-worthy white for lovers of Clare, Eden, or the great dry styles of the Mosel and Rheingau. Perfect with oysters, Thai salads, or simply as a showpiece glass on a summer evening.