2025 Henschke Peggy’s Hill Riesling, Eden Valley

Pale in the glass with just a youthful flash of green and aromas of freshly squeezed lime, Bickford's lime cordial and hints of Christmas lilies, crushed stone, green apple, citrus blossom, lemongrass and makrut lime. Sleek in its travel with a crystalline mineral driveline; all tension and detail as it shoots across the palate. Velocity and precision writ large. Such great, refreshing drinking, with a slatey, dry finish.

94 points Special Value Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

Henschke Peggy’s Hill Riesling is one of the quiet cornerstones of Australian Riesling, a wine that consistently delivers purity, precision and a deep sense of Eden Valley place. Sourced from the high, cool slopes of the Eden Valley, this is Riesling shaped by altitude, ancient soils and long, slow ripening seasons that favour finesse over force.

The Henschke story is inseparable from Australian wine history. Founded in 1868, the family has been farming the Eden Valley for generations, and today Stephen and Prue Henschke continue that legacy with a focus on sustainability, vineyard expression and thoughtful, restrained winemaking. Peggy’s Hill takes its name from Prue Henschke’s mother, a personal touch that mirrors the wine’s understated, graceful style.

The vineyards sit well above the Barossa floor, where shallow, rocky soils and cool nights lock in acidity and aromatic detail. Riesling thrives here, developing intense flavour at modest sugar levels. The winemaking is deliberately simple, designed to capture the clarity of the fruit rather than add layers, allowing the Eden Valley character to shine through.

In the glass, Peggy’s Hill Riesling is all about brightness and line. Fresh lime, lemon zest and green apple lead, followed by white florals and a gentle talc like minerality. The palate is taut and focused, with vibrant acidity carrying citrus flavours and a subtle savoury edge through a long, dry finish. With time, classic Eden Valley notes of toast and honey begin to emerge, adding depth without losing freshness.

This is a Riesling that loves the table. It works beautifully with fresh seafood, Asian inspired dishes, spicy salads or simply on its own as an aperitif. While delicious in its youth, it is also built to age, developing complexity and texture over many years while retaining its trademark energy.

Henschke Peggy’s Hill Riesling is a reminder of how compelling Australian Riesling can be when history, site and restraint come together in perfect balance.