CRAWFORD RIVER YOUNG VINES RIESLING - A YOUNG'UN AND A GOOD'UN

Over the past three decades, Crawford River has established itself as arguably the finest producer of Riesling in Victoria. Based in the cool climate region of Henty in the state’s south-west, Crawford River typically produces two Rieslings. The flagship Riesling is made from fully mature vines, planted in the 1970’s. This ‘Young Vines’ bottling draws on fruit from 11-year old vines.

There is a real sense of coolness about this wine, reflected in the steely nose, crystalline purity and very fresh lime, apple and floral aromatics. The palate is racy and fine, cut by a line of vibrant acidity. It is a high quality Riesling that should develop very well in bottle for up to 10 years, perhaps longer.

While it may not possess the richness or intensity of the flagship bottling, there is a lot to like about Crawford River’s Young Vines Riesling.  Lovers of Riesling take note!

2011 YOUNG VINES RIESLING
Producer: Crawford River
Variety: Riesling
Vintage: 2011
Region: Henty, Victoria
ABV: 12.5%
Closure: Screw cap
Format: 750ml
Retail price: $26.99
Date tasted: 14 April 2012

Tasting Note:
Pale silvery green. The nose possesses steely crystalline purity; kaffir lime leaf, lime peel, green apples, floral lift. Dry, medium bodied, very fresh and vibrant, quite racy, with a prickle of acidity running through the wine. Crisp and crunchy Granny Smith apples, pithy grapefruit. Finishes long.
Score: 16.5+/20