Rieslingfreak No.2 Polish Hill River Riesling 2023
Rieslingfreak is the inspiration of John Hughes. The first vintage of Rieslingfreak was in 2009, with a single vineyard Clare Valley Riesling. Since then, the label has expanded to include Eden Valley and Polish Hill River regions. Together with traditional dry Rieslings, Rieslingfreak also showcases this versatile grape in off dry, Kabinett, sparkling and fortified styles.
Each Rieslingfreak wine is allocated an individual number representing both the region where the grapes are grown, and the style in which the wine is made.
No.2 is a dry style, showcasing many of the refinements typical of the Polish Hill River. The limestone and shale rock soil profile are reflected in the wine with mineral and slate notes. The Polish Hill River vineyard, owned by Robert and Lyn Jaeschke is south-east of the Clare township, in the heart of the Polish Hill River. Planted on grey loam over sandy limestone and shale rock, these vines produce tight Rieslings.
Polish Hill River is renowned for producing Riesling of elegance, and the 2023 No. 2 is no exception. The bouquet is highly perfumed with aromas of fresh grapefruit, jasmine, chamomile and apple blossom, with a hint of peachy sweetness. The palate is crisp yet silky- soft, with a fine, talc-like minerality imparting a pleasing slipperiness to the texture in the mouth. The bright citrusy flavours run a fine line between sweet and tart, anchored by the acerbically mouth-watering flavours of pink grapefruit and kumquat, wrapped in the subtly- sweet flavours of Nashi Pear, apricot and white peach. The elegant and complex palate is punctuated with bright natural acidity, imparting exceptional length and a clean, crisp finish.
From the Polish Hill River Vineyard of the Jaeschke family. The bouquet offers citrus blossom, then Granny Smith apple and some of the slate of the district. John and Belinda Hughes had a great time with this vintage. - James Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion, 95 Points.
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Riesling
Country - Australia
Region - Polish Hill, Clare Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 11.5%