2025 West Cape Howe Riesling, Mount Barker

West Cape Howe Riesling from Mount Barker is a crisp, beautifully defined wine that captures the precision and aromatic purity for which the Great Southern region is renowned. Crafted by winemaker Gavin Berry, it reflects the cool maritime influence and gravelly soils of Mount Barker, producing Riesling with exceptional intensity, freshness, and longevity.

The fruit is sourced from mature vineyards planted on well-drained gravel and loam soils. These elevated sites benefit from long, cool growing seasons that allow the grapes to develop concentrated flavours while retaining bright natural acidity. The hand-picked fruit is gently pressed and fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel to preserve the pure citrus and floral aromatics that define this style.

In the glass it shines pale straw with green tinges. The aroma is vibrant and precise, showing lime zest, lemon blossom, and green apple with subtle notes of talc and mineral. The palate is dry, taut, and pure, revealing layers of citrus and crunchy apple framed by mouth-watering acidity and a lingering, chalky finish. It is both delicate and intense, a true reflection of Mount Barker’s cool-climate finesse.

It pairs beautifully with fresh oysters, grilled fish, or spicy Asian dishes, and also works well with salads and goat cheese. While irresistible in its youth, it will evolve gracefully for more than ten years, developing notes of honey, toast, and lime curd.