2026 Rieslingfreak No 12 Flaxman Valley Riesling, Eden Valley

Flaxman Valley–sourced riesling is really delivering the goods. There's a little more concentration of aromas and flavours here compared to the other Eden Valley offering from the Freak. That classic regional Bickford's lime cordial note is there, along with achingly pure fresh lime, green apple and grapefruit cut with hints of lemongrass, ozone, orange blossom, Christmas lily, crushed stone and lime zest. Bone dry, taut and sleek, with a scorching mineral cadence and long, porcelain core of limey fruit that shoots forth like a laser. Woah! Drink to 2038.

96 points & Special Value Dave Brookes for Halliday Wine Companion, September 2026

The 2026 No.12 is intensely perfumed with makrut lime, kiwifruit, dragonfruit and rose petals, complemented by the earthy, mineral accent of ground limestone and wet-slate. The palate is ultra-refined and exceptionally delicate, with a slick and satiny texture wrapped around a core of crackling acidity. Exhibiting a symphony of zesty citrus flavours including yuzu and finger lime, combined with the sweet-floral pungency of fresh quince, the palate is grounded by a lick of flinty minerality with a sharpened steely edge. The crisp natural acidity imparts length and vibrancy, bringing laser-sharp focus to the driving, persistent finish.

High in the Eden Valley, Flaxman Valley has become one of Australia's most prized sources of world class Riesling. Its elevated vineyards, ancient soils and cool climate produce wines of remarkable purity, vibrant natural acidity and impressive longevity. Rieslingfreak founder and winemaker John Hughes has built a devoted following through his single minded passion for the variety, with each numbered release celebrating a different expression of Australia's greatest Riesling regions.

No. 12 is sourced from the rugged slopes of Flaxman Valley, where cool nights preserve aromatic intensity and fine acidity while warm days encourage slow, even ripening. The outstanding 2026 vintage has delivered fruit of exceptional precision and balance, allowing the site's distinctive mineral character to shine. Careful winemaking ensures the wine remains bright, pure and unmistakably expressive of both vineyard and variety.

An outstanding match for freshly shucked oysters, grilled King George whiting, salt and pepper squid, Vietnamese rice paper rolls or goat's cheese tart. While irresistibly fresh in its youth, this Riesling has the balance and structure to reward extended cellaring.