Pike Wines: Riesling & Viognier
With Paul Ippolito
This
boutique Clare Valley winery in South Australia is receiving many
accolades for their wines - and rightly so. Traditionally its Riesling
was its benchmark varietal for receiving such praise and "The Merle",
their premier wine, is no exception, especially this vintage but one of
their other whites, this Viognier requires some attention as well. “Gill’s Farm” Viognier 2004 In
a time where every man and his dog seem to be making Viognier, this is
a standout example of how to do it properly. It offers beautiful summer
drinking with its translucent lemon yellow colour and its array of
gorgeous aromas. Think honeysuckle, ripe lemon and smooth
apricots, which carry over with a lovely mouth feel of flavoursome
luscious fruit characters. All of this is supported by a lively but not
over top fruit acidity. Top notch stuff, and really good
with Asian cuisine such as salt and pepper calamari. At about $18,
there is no excuse not to try some. “The Merle” Riesling 2005 This is the pinnacle Riesling in the Pike portfolio. It is named in honour after the Pike Matriarch, Merle Pike. An
exquisite wine emanates with purity of fruit dominating. Pale straw in
colour, it is aromatic and at the same time, elegant. It delivers pure
lime juice with citrus characters and tropical fruit hints. Some pear
and almond also interact with the above. Soft, smooth and
well rounded on the palate with just right acidity. A rush of citrus
lemon and lime that lingers flows through on the finish. Have with Thai style prawn and calamari salad. Well priced at around $30. An excellent wine.
Paul can be contacted by email at Paul_Ippolito@hotmail.com
where you can also request to be placed on his mailing list
for his wine newsletter.
About Paul Ippolito.
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