Artis Wines Single Vineyard Riesling 2018

Most Aussie Rieslings are bone dry, a style very much appreciated by fans of the grape. There are, however, other options, as anyone who has ventured into the offerings from Germany, and even New Zealand, can attest. The man behind the Artis stable of wines, Andrew Miller, has taken some superb Eden Valley Riesling fruit and made it in that off-dry style. I am an immediate fan. From a contour vineyard planted back in 1972, only free run juice is used. Fermentation was in a mix of stainless steel and old French oak, the latter with wild yeasts. That parcel had fermentation stopped before reaching complete dryness. 

The result is a wine which is fresh, but with a few years in the cellar before release, has picked up some developmental notes. Spices, citrus, florals, a hint of pear and some lemon meringue. Good focus, gentle acidity, fine balance and serious length. The touch of fruit sweetness fills out the palate and makes for a very appealing and food friendly wine. Delicious now, but will easily age and improve for another five to eight years. One to chase.