2025 Bannockburn Riesling, Geelong

Made mainly from 0.4ha of vines planted in 1976. A light, bright green gold. A delicate and complex bouquet of just-picked white peach, grapefruit, lemongrass and flowers. The palate is just as delicate and vibrant, finishing dry and very long. The balance of fruit and acidity is nigh on perfect. A gorgeous wine from go to whoa!

97 points Special Value Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

A lovely release with floral-edged aromas of citrus blossoms, lemons, white flowers, lanolin and pears. The palate is textural, with great fruit density and vibrant acidity that carries both weight and a mineral-edged backbone without being too broad. Nicely constructed, with a few grams of sugar bringing balance to the acidity. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

94 points jamessuckling.com

Bannockburn Riesling from Geelong is a crisp, finely structured and beautifully expressive wine that captures the region’s cool climate precision and the estate’s deep respect for site. Bannockburn Vineyards, established by the late Stuart Hooper and now led by winemaker Matt Holmes, is renowned for its minimal-intervention philosophy and its ability to coax both purity and personality from its limestone-rich soils. The Riesling continues that legacy, offering tension, texture and a quiet intensity that reflects the unique conditions of Bannockburn’s estate vineyards.

The grapes come from low-yielding vines on the slopes surrounding the winery, where a combination of marine limestone and volcanic basalt contributes both vibrancy and mineral depth. Hand picked fruit is whole bunch pressed and fermented cool with ambient yeasts in stainless steel to preserve aromatics. A small portion is matured on lees for extra complexity and palate weight, while maintaining the bright, linear style that defines Bannockburn’s whites.

In the glass it appears pale straw with green highlights. The aroma is pure and lifted, showing lime zest, green apple, white flowers and crushed quartz. The palate is dry, taut and precise, balancing intense citrus and mineral flavours with racy acidity. Subtle hints of jasmine, spice and wet stone linger through the finish, creating a wine that feels both delicate and powerful at once.

Bannockburn Riesling pairs beautifully with oysters, grilled prawns, fresh sashimi or Thai-style salads. It also suits dishes featuring lime, lemongrass or soft cheeses. Enjoy it young for its clarity and drive, or cellar for up to ten years to develop beautiful notes of honey, toast and lanolin while retaining its refreshing core.