2024 Poppies Late Harvest Riesling, Martinborough

This is supremely fine and delicate, yet concentrated with discreet power; the elegantly lifted bouquet shows lemon pith, nectarine, green tea, and kaffir lime notes with a hint of jasmine. The wonderfully structured palate displays fine flow and refined texture, gorgeously complemented by enticing sweetness backed by lively acidity, finishing sleek and persistent. Captivating with scintillating clarity and harmony, ensuring its graceful development. At its best: 2027 to 2039.

96 points Sam Kim wineorbit.co.nz

Poppies Late Harvest Riesling from Martinborough is a rare and elegant dessert wine that showcases the precision and purity that Poppy and Shayne Hammond bring to all their handcrafted releases. Produced in very small quantities, this wine is made only when vintage conditions allow the Riesling grapes to hang long on the vine, developing rich sugar levels and sometimes a touch of noble rot for added complexity.

The fruit is handpicked at optimum ripeness, then gently pressed and slowly fermented to retain aromatic intensity and balance the natural sweetness with vibrant acidity. The result is a beautifully poised late harvest style that remains fresh and lifted despite its luscious texture.

In the glass, it offers a fragrant nose of lime marmalade, honeysuckle, candied citrus peel and white flowers. The palate is silky and concentrated, showing layers of lemon curd, green apple, honey and a fine line of acidity that carries the wine to a clean, refreshing finish. It’s decadent but never cloying.

Perfect with lemon tart, crème brûlée, fresh stone fruits, or washed rind cheeses. It’s also a beautiful standalone sipper for quiet evenings or special occasions.