Pikes Wines Riesling Traditionale 2021

Pikes Wines from the Clare Valley (and Adelaide Hills) are inevitably some of the most reliable in the country. They never miss. From their origins in the mid 1980s, Pikes have offered this Riesling (the name may have varied a touch) and it is always one of the best value buys in the country. If you are confronted with an unfamiliar wine list, and Pikes Traditionale is on it, look no further. This is the 37th release of this wine. The fruit comes from the family’s vineyards, plus growers in Watervale, Sevenhill, Leasingham and Mintaro. 

This is one of the very best of the Riesling Traditionale line I have seen. The colour is like faded pale yellow, think of the most dilute rays of sunshine immediately after a thunderstorm. Lovely lifted aromas tantalise. Limes, spices, bath salts, a hint of Turkish Delight, and throughout, appealing florals. The wine has immaculate balance and good intensity. Seriously impressive length and a nice flick of acidity to carry the wine. This has ten to twenty years ahead. Superb stuff.