Winery & Vintage Info
Riesling vines were first planted as part of Henry Best’s ‘Nursery Block’ vineyard in the 1860s. From subsequent plantings in 1944 and 1978, Riesling has become a significant part of our regime.
The Riesling vines from Great Western produce flavoursome, elegantly structured, spectacularly age-worthy Rieslings which stand confidently alongside some of the most outstanding Australian examples of the variety. In recent times, the style has evolved to match the continental climatic conditions to a beautifully balanced wine with texture and aromatics.
The Rieslings of Best’s have a proven ability to mature gracefully for 20 years or more. This example is no exception and its youthful freshness is a good sign for its long life in the cellar. It will gather complex toasty aromas and flavours as the years pass. Absolutely delicious with spinach and ricotta cannelloni.
The vineyard got off to a great start, but dry conditions throughout the spring triggered a devastating frost on 4th November. The grapes on the lower vineyards were lost, but those on higher elevations where largely unaffected. Apart from a few warm days in January the conditions were excellent and perfect ripening weather continued long into the Autumn. A standout year for Riesling with high natural acidity and fine flavours and aromas. Winery Notes
Reviews
"Great Western Riesling. If we’ve said it once…
Bit of a treat. Scintillating style, juiciness and length. Meyer lemon, lime, red apple and slate. Unencumbered lines. Pleasure and pain, in a good way. Oh the acidity."
94 Points - Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front, October 2018, Drink: 2018 - 2028
"Pale straw-green; the bouquet is enticing, but it's the palate that sends all the senses into overdrive. Intense lime juice intersects with shiny bright acidity. This takes mouthwatering flavours onto new levels. Great length inevitably follows, promising a very long life. The Great Western subregion deserves far greater recognition for its rieslings. Drink by: 2032; Price: $25.00; Date Tasted: Sept 2018; Alcohol: 11%"
96 Points - James Halliday Wine Companion, Top 100 Wines for 2018
