Almost all Robert Stein wines are Estate grown, handpicked and crafted by Jacob Stein. The Stein family history dates back to the earliest days of Australia’s agricultural pioneers and the winery fulfils its standing as one of the most fundamental institutions of grape growing in New South Wales. I look forward, in particular, to sampling the Rieslings each year. Astonishingly they continue to get better and better, vintage after vintage.
Robert Stein Dry Riesling 2021
90 Points
An aroma profile that feels familiar and friendly, it’s classically arranged into all those citrus curds that mum used to make. Backyard limes, candied lemon zest and summer frangipani with baked scorching cement and stony minerality. Imagine licking a lime splice on a hot day ‘AHHH’. The 2021 Dry Riesling from Stein is also freshness personified. A chalky and puckering acid line is the final sounding note. A drink for many occasions and a plethora of dishes, but I am inclined to think potato scallops and chicken salt might just be a happy little marriage.
Robert Stein Half Dry Riesling 2021
93 Points
The grapes are sourced from Orange and the Angullong Vineyard, a dramatic site of high elevation. Sherbet lemon burst through the gates of a highly scented wine, acacia and white lilies with grapefruit halves with a sprinkle of fine white caster sugar. The power of site is enveloping, and showcased by the 15 grams of residual sugar and finishing with a trajectory of fine acidity. This is a wine that will live a long life and only develop further complexity. As a drink right now it’s straight up moreish and enticing. A fool proof wine for seafood cured in citrus, try Moreton Bay bug ceviche with a spoon of trout roe for good measure.
