Limefinger Learnings Watervale Riesling 2023

It has only been a few years but Neil Pike, one of the Clare Valley’s most experienced and skilled Riesling makers, has made some serious waves with his new label, Limefinger. These are Clare Rieslings of the highest quality. “The Learnings” is sourced from the St Clare Gardens ‘Honey Home Block’, just northeast of the Watervale township. The vineyard was planted in 2002. This is trout stream transparent in colour. The nose gives us lovely citrus characters, hints of grapefruit and limes, florals, spices with a chalky backing. There is balance and focus with great length supported by fine acidity – absolutely nothing out of place here. Neil talks about this going for five to seven years before it develops that alluring toast and honey. Perhaps, but I have no doubt that the wine will continue to drink beautifully long after that, another five to eight years.