Best's Great Western

Riesling vines were first planted here at Best's Wines in the late 1860s, as part of Henry Best’s ‘Nursery Block’. From subsequent plantings in 1944 (since removed), 1978 and 1998 Riesling has become a significant part of our range.

Riesling vines from Great Western produce elegant, flavoursome and age-worthy Rieslings which stand alongside some of the most outstanding examples of the variety in Australia. In recent times, the style has evolved to match the continental climatic conditions to a beautifully balanced wine with texture and aromatics.

The climate and soils in the Grampians wine region suit the Riesling variety perfectly. Our cool, continental location makes for very cold winters and strong diurnal (daily) temperature shifts during the growing season. This ensures full ripeness and plenty of natural acidity in the grapes.

The Riesling at Best's has 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.

TASTING NOTES

Fresh and vibrant palate with lots of stone fruits characters: nectarines and apricots. Lemon & lime sorbet drive with lemon rind phenolics. A light bodied wine with high impact flavours, and vibrant acidity.

WHAT THE WINE CRITICS HAD TO SAY

'The acidity and drive you expect of good Riesling is there all right, everything in its place.  But it’s in the flavour where this wine shines.  There’s loads of it – apple, citrus, nashi pear and a squeeze of lime, all very generous and bright. 

History tells us this is a great cellaring wine, but it’s such an elegant and expressive youngster that I’d savour the moment.'

Newcastle Herald – Rick Allan 11th December 2024