Bream Creek Riesling 2020

This wine presents a powerful argument for why we need more Tasmanian riesling in our lives. The grape is overshadowed by the success of chardonnay in the Apple Isle, but this does not mean it should continue thus. The state is big enough for two top white grapes.

Fred Peacock at Bream Creek is a brilliant riesling champion. Here he presents a pristine, beautifully expressive youngster with all the verve and energy that comes with a one-year-old. Precocious? You might be lured into believing that, except from tasting experience Bream Creek riesling retains vitality throughout its entire life. It’s why the brand and the grape is always in any Tassie Top 10 listing.

In 2020, an extremely dry start to the season turned windy and cold around flowering. In some cases, yields were down 40%. In this instance, it contributed to a deep concentration of flavour.

There is a zesty, lively start to the wine which arrives in hues of pale lemon. Intense fresh lime zest, lemon sorbet and pretty florals of apple and citrus blossom rise from the glass. The palate keeps firm to a citrus line with the most intriguing spice hiding in the shadows – almost gewurz-like – and fruit peel. Brisk acidity is in tune with the fruit intensity. The juicy lemon drop, fruit sweet core at the centre of the wine is highly complimentary, summoning the tastebuds into action. This wine offers the essential taste of cool climate riesling.