Penfolds Bin 51 Riesling 2017

Winemaking and Drinking

The Penfolds Bin 51 Riesling 2017 hails from the esteemed Eden Valley in South Australia, a region renowned for producing some of the world's finest Rieslings. Eden Valley's cool climate and elevated altitude provide the ideal conditions for growing Riesling grapes, which thrive in the region's mineral-rich soils. Penfolds, a winery with a legacy dating back to 1844, introduced the Bin 51 Riesling in 1999 as part of its white wine collection. The 2017 vintage is particularly notable for its excellent growing season, which was characterized by a cool, wet winter followed by a mild spring and summer. These conditions allowed the grapes to ripen slowly, developing intense flavors and maintaining high natural acidity.

Tasting Notes

The Penfolds Bin 51 Riesling 2017 is a vibrant expression of the varietal, showcasing the purity and elegance for which Eden Valley Rieslings are known. In the glass, it presents a pale straw color with greenish hues, indicative of its youth and freshness. The nose is a fragrant bouquet of lime zest, lemon blossom, and green apple, intertwined with subtle hints of white flowers and wet slate, a hallmark of the Eden Valley terroir. On the palate, the wine is crisp and lively, with a zesty acidity that dances across the tongue. Flavors of citrus fruits, particularly lime and lemon, dominate, complemented by notes of crunchy green apple and a slight mineral undertone. The finish is long, clean, and refreshing, leaving a lingering impression of citrus and slate.

Awards and Accolades

Since its release, the Penfolds Bin 51 Riesling 2017 has garnered widespread acclaim from critics and wine enthusiasts alike. It has been awarded high scores from prominent wine publications, with many praising its balance, precision, and age-worthy potential. Notably, it received 94 points from James Halliday's Wine Companion, where it was lauded for its "drive and energy." The wine was also featured in the Wine Spectator, where it earned 92 points and was described as "a brilliant Riesling with superb focus." The combination of its expressive character and potential for aging has solidified the Bin 51 Riesling 2017 as one of the standout Rieslings from Penfolds, a wine that exemplifies the best of Eden Valley's unique terroir.

The Penfolds Bin 51 Riesling 2017 continues to shine as a benchmark for Australian Riesling, celebrated for its purity, vibrancy, and the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Penfolds' approach to winemaking. Whether enjoyed in its youth or cellared for future enjoyment, this wine promises a memorable experience for those who appreciate the nuanced elegance of cool-climate Rieslings.