New World: Riesling
2018 Gold 3 Silver 7 Bronze 1 Commended 7
2017 Gold 2 Silver 2 Bronze 3 Commended 3
Just as they have with Chardonnay, so the Aussies are threatening to become the dominant force with Riesling. Their status with this grape has grown consistently throughout the Sommelier Wine Awards, from ‘niched’ to ‘powerful’, particularly in the past few years. Certainly, it seems to be a variety that they can do much better things with than Sauvignon Blanc.
Star region, unsurprisingly, was the Clare Valley, which accounted for all three Golds, though it was interesting to see a spread of medals from across the country, from the Great Southern to Victoria.
Value wise, these were pretty good – especially when you consider that some of the medal winners had a reasonable amount of age on them. The two Paulett Golds being superb examples of semi-mature, high quality Rieslings at very good prices.
FROM THE TASTING TEAMS
‘You had two spectrums of flavour here, from the dry, crisp clean to the heavy petrol and kerosene style, but the entire flight was good quality. We really saw the Australians pulling their act together on the Riesling front.’ Andre Luis Martins, Cavalry & Guards Club
‘There was very precise and clean winemaking here, and I think that’s what sets them apart. These have lots of character, and are so zippy.’ Debbie Warner, Wild Wine Club
‘These were all well made, and tasty. I’d pretty much put them all on the list.’ Arletta Mala, Glasshouse
‘Even at the lowest prices these had complexity, and they’re all balanced really well. When you discover these you’ll love them. They’re also very gastronomic wines, well suited to classic dishes.’ Tatiana Mann, The Vine Eno Gastro Pub
‘For me, in a way, screwcap is a guarantee that the winemaker’s philosophy is being preserved.’ Andrea Briccarello, team leader