Winemaking and Drinking
Pikes, a renowned winery nestled in the picturesque Clare Valley of South Australia, has consistently produced exemplary wines that capture the essence of their terroir. The "Hills and Valleys" Riesling 2022 is no exception, embodying the winery's commitment to quality and tradition.
Background
Pikes was established in 1984 by Neil and Andrew Pike, continuing a family tradition that dates back to 1886 when Henry Pike, an English immigrant, started brewing beer in the Adelaide Hills. The Pikes' venture into winemaking has been marked by a dedication to crafting wines that reflect the unique characteristics of their vineyards. The Clare Valley, with its diverse topography and unique climatic conditions, provides an ideal environment for producing high-quality Rieslings.
Vineyard and Terroir
The grapes for the 2022 "Hills and Valleys" Riesling were sourced from Pikes’ own vineyards in the Polish Hill River sub-region of the Clare Valley. This area is known for its slate and limestone soils, which contribute to the distinctive mineral notes found in the wine. The cool climate of Polish Hill River, with its significant diurnal temperature variation, allows the Riesling grapes to ripen slowly, developing intense flavors while retaining high levels of natural acidity.
Viticulture and Harvest
2022 was a vintage marked by favorable weather conditions, ensuring healthy grape development. A cooler growing season allowed for extended hang time on the vines, enhancing the aromatic complexity of the Riesling. The grapes were handpicked in the early hours of the morning to preserve their delicate aromatics and fresh acidity. This meticulous approach to viticulture is a hallmark of Pikes' commitment to quality.
Winemaking
The winemaking team at Pikes employs a minimalist approach to ensure the purity of the Riesling shines through. The grapes were gently pressed and the juice was cold-settled before fermentation. Fermentation was carried out at low temperatures in stainless steel tanks to preserve the vibrant fruit characters and the natural acidity of the Riesling. The wine was then aged on fine lees for several months to enhance its texture and complexity.
Tasting Notes
The Pikes "Hills and Valleys" Riesling 2022 presents a brilliant pale straw color with green hues, hinting at its youth and vitality. On the nose, it is highly aromatic, offering an enticing bouquet of lime zest, green apple, and jasmine, intertwined with subtle hints of wet slate and flint, reflecting its terroir.
The palate is where this Riesling truly shines. It is light to medium-bodied with a zesty acidity that provides a backbone of freshness. Flavors of citrus fruits—predominantly lime and lemon—dominate, complemented by notes of white peach and green apple. There is a distinct minerality that runs through the wine, a characteristic of the slate and limestone soils of Polish Hill River. The finish is long and clean, with a lingering acidity that invites another sip.
Pikes "Hills and Valleys" Riesling 2022 is a testament to the winery’s expertise in crafting premium Riesling. Its vibrant acidity, aromatic complexity, and mineral undertones make it an exemplary representation of the Clare Valley’s unique terroir. Whether enjoyed now for its fresh and lively character or cellared for several years to develop further complexity, this Riesling is a true delight for wine enthusiasts.
| Wine Type | White wine |
| Producer | Pikes |
| State | South Australia |
| Region | Clare Valley |
| Variety | Riesling |
| Year | 2022 |
| Volume | 750 mL |
| Alcohol | 10% |