870 CASES PRODUCED
Mount Horrocks’ Watervale Riesling Vineyard is a very high (475 metre) vineyard planted on red loam over limestone, a profile that occurs throughout the sub-region and considered to be ‘classic’ for Watervale riesling.
However that’s where the similarities end. The vineyard is on a gentle slope, facing south. Combined with the high altitude, this makes it a particularly cool spot, ideal for retaining freshness and a crisp palate while allowing generous fruit flavours to develop.
Then there is the biodynamic and organic certification – strictly no chemical input here or in the surrounding land, also owned by Mount Horrocks.
In what is now often considered ‘old fashioned’ all fruit is hand harvested – better for the vines as well as the fruit which is then delivered to the winery in a pristine state.
Tasting Notes
This is 100% pure expression of single site Riesling from an idyllic vintage. Aromatics more lemon than lime with delightful floral spice.
Expressive, concentrated citrus and pear fruits, ginger and honeysuckle with a touch of talc. Delicate yet flavoursome, crunchy, energetic and long on the palate, with crisp acidity providing zest and immense appeal. Big future ahead – easily 15+ years
Reviews
Weekend Australian Magazine TOP 100 of 2024
97 Points
Living in a wine region has its advantages. During harvest this year I bumped into winemaker Stephanie Toole in the greengrocers and she had a smile on her face that only just fit through the door. “We’ve just picked the best Riesling fruit I’ve seen in my life,” she told me. Some winemakers can gild the lily but Toole isn’t one of them, and that early excitement becomes truth in this wine. Simply exceptional.
Nick Ryan
TOP 250 AUSTRALIAN WINES 2024
95 Points
The cool 2024 season was particularly spectacular in the Clare Valley, translated impeccably by Stephanie Toole in a riesling of pristine purity, deep concentration and profound endurance. Pitch-perfect granny smith apple and lime build a palate of considerable presence, traced with natural acidity of heightened cut and tension.
Tyson Stelzer – October 2024
Huon Hooke – The Real Review
94 Points
