2022 Clark Estate Block 8 Riesling

94 points / 5 stars            Sam Kim, Wine Orbit

Delicately poised and elegantly fragrant, the bouquet shows Gala apple, orange peel and lemon zest nuances, followed by a succulent palate that’s finely flowing with attractive sweetness backed by juicy acidity. It’s mouth-watering with excellent balance and harmony. Style: Medium-sweet. At its best: now to 2032. Feb 2023.

90 points / 4 stars            Bob Campbell MW

Medium dry riesling with lime zest, honey, apricot, lemon blossom and oyster shell characters. Good balance of sweet/sour flavours result in a pleasing tension. Good value at this price. Drink 2023 to 2026.

Feb 2023.

92 Points Premium            Cameron Douglas MS

Aromas and flavours of lemon and lime, elderflower and white peach. In an off-dry style there’s plenty of energy as the wine touches the palate, contrasting acidity is vibrant and expands the flavours across the palate. A silky touch then structure and fruit flavours follow. Balanced and well made with best drinking from late 2023 through 2029.

86 points 4 stars            Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews

Bright, even, pale yellow. The nose is softly fresh, with citrus, apple and blossom aromas. Light-bodied, medium-dry to taste, aromas of green apple, lime and mandarin adorned by blossom and a hint of honey. The wine is refreshing, with a good balance of acidity and sweetness, leaving a moreish finish. Feb 2023

Viticulture

The rugged climate of the Awatere Valley is ideal for producing grapes of intensity and concentration.  The ancient soils and harsh winds combine to create an environment where the vines struggle and crops are naturally low, therefore all the energy of the plant is dedicated to the fruit.

Winemaking

The grapes were picked and processed as quickly as possible to retain the delicate flavours.  The beautifully clear juice was slowly fermented under very cool conditions until the balance between the residual sugar and acidity was perfect.  The resultant alcohol is 8%.

Wine Analysis

pH        2.93

TA        9.82 g/L

Alc       8.0 %

RS       43.0 g/L

Our single-vineyard Block 8 Riesling is the pure essence of the Awatere Valley.  This wine shows great poise and structure with flavours that burst out of the glass.  The lower alcohol of 8% makes this wine perfect for lunchtime meals or simply enjoyed by itself.