Pikes The Merle Riesling 2022

Fabulous purity and poise, and quite different to Pikes Traditionale, the 2022 Merle is a sleek little number that slowly opens up to reveal aromas of bath salts and mixed citrus with some exotic honeydew melon, all composed and bright. There is superb focus and delicacy too, with an understated power and minerality that underpins a long and stony finish. It’s a sleeper thanks to exceptional balance and destined to deliver plenty over the next decade at least.