The Wine Animal Verdict: This Riesling is a sleek and vibrant creature, reflecting the cool-climate elegance of the Yarra Valley. It's not a roaring beast, but a nimble fox, darting across the palate with zesty citrus and a refreshing minerality. This wine speaks of its origin, offering a delightful balance of fruit purity and crisp acidity.
What's in the Cage: Sourced from the Yarra Valley, a region known for its cool climate and ability to produce elegant and aromatic wines, this Riesling showcases the region's signature style. Valentine Wines is known for their focus on single-vineyard expressions and their commitment to minimal intervention winemaking, allowing the fruit to shine.
Tasting Notes (based on the typical characteristics of Yarra Valley Riesling):
On the prowl, the nose is fresh and inviting:
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Bright Citrus: Expect aromas of lime, lemon, and grapefruit.
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Floral Notes: Hints of jasmine or orange blossom add a touch of elegance.
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Mineral Drive: A characteristic minerality, often described as slate or flint, provides a backbone and freshness.
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Green Apple Crispness: A core of fresh green apple adds to the wine's vibrancy.
The palate is where this fox truly takes flight:
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Crisp Acidity: A defining characteristic, providing exceptional freshness and length.
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Bone-Dry: The wine is typically bone-dry, allowing the minerality and acidity to shine.
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Intense Flavors: The citrus and green apple notes are joined by that distinctive minerality, creating a complex and layered experience.
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Long and Electric Finish: The finish is incredibly long and leaves a mouthwatering sensation.
Who's it For: This is for the Riesling enthusiast who appreciates purity, intensity, and a wine that truly reflects its terroir. If you seek a Riesling with electrifying acidity, intense minerality, and the potential to age gracefully, then Valentine Wines Yarra Valley Riesling is calling your name.
Pairing Power: This Riesling is a versatile and food-friendly companion:
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Seafood: Oysters, sashimi, and other delicate seafood preparations.
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Spicy Asian Cuisine: Thai curries, Vietnamese salads, and other dishes with vibrant flavors.
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Shellfish: Mussels, clams, and scallops.
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Goat Cheese: Its acidity will cut through the richness of goat cheese.
The Bottom Line: The Valentine Wines Yarra Valley Riesling 2021 is a beautiful example of cool-climate Australian Riesling. It's a wine that showcases the elegance and purity of the Yarra Valley, offering a delightful combination of bright fruit, crisp acidity, and a distinctive minerality. It's a refreshing and thought-provoking wine, a true expression of its unique origin.
