Hesketh Riesling Eden Valley 2021

Such a cracking vintage for Riesling from both the Eden Valley and the Clare (the exciting news is that, talking to a high profile white wine winemaker who works across the regions, the word is that 2022 might even exceed it – early days but how thrilling if it comes to pass). The fruit here was fermented in stainless steel, as one would expect, at low temperatures, with limited skin contact. Mostly free run juice with a small percentage of pressings – the intention being to add texture and flavour.

This is a very pale straw. The nose offers citrus, lemon sherbet, lime blossoms. Florals are to the fore here. The wine exhibits an alluring gentleness and elegance with lingering persistence. Bright acidity first, this is clean and focused with a juicy finish, supple texture and excellent length. Delicious now but it has a good eight to ten years ahead. It should step up yet another notch over that time.