2024 Henschke Julius Riesling, Eden Valley

Pale straw in the glass with a flash of green and inviting aromas of Bickford's lime cordial, fresh lime juice, green apple sorbet and grapefruit. Hints of crushed quartz, Christmas lily, citrus blossom, almond paste, ozone, lemongrass and makrut lime. There is a beautiful tubular, porcelain palate shape here, slickly focused and precise with a slight ache of umami as the wine tears across the tongue like a limey Shinkansen, finishing long, dry and beautifully balanced.

96 points Special Value Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

From the high altitude slopes of Eden Valley, Henschke Julius Riesling is one of Australia’s benchmark expressions of cool climate Riesling, combining purity, structure and remarkable longevity. Named in honour of Johann Christian Henschke, a key figure in the family’s nineteenth century winemaking history, the wine reflects generations of meticulous vineyard stewardship. Today Stephen and Prue Henschke continue to farm biodynamically, nurturing old vines rooted in ancient soils that help shape this finely detailed style.

A pale lemon hue with brilliant green flashes signals its youthful vitality. Aromas lift with lime zest, green apple and white florals layered with talc, wet stone and a delicate hint of citrus blossom. There is an immediate sense of crystalline clarity and precision.

The palate is dry, vibrant and laser focused, delivering flavours of lemon, grapefruit and crunchy orchard fruit framed by piercing acidity and a firm mineral backbone. Subtle notes of kaffir lime, chalk dust and gentle phenolic tension build through the mid palate, leading to a long, mouthwatering finish that feels both energetic and poised. While already delicious for its purity, Julius will age gracefully over fifteen to twenty years, developing toast, honey and the classic kerosene complexity of great Eden Valley Riesling.

Fresh sashimi with wasabi and soy, salt and pepper squid straight from the wok, or bright herb packed salads scattered across the table. A spin of INXS Kick or something shimmering from M83 drifting through the speakers, the wine bringing cool altitude freshness and quiet Australian confidence to the moment.