Jim Barry The Florita Riesling 2024

Drink it now or cellar for up to 25 years. No need to decant, but best to open it an hour before service. Founded in 1959 by the late Jim Barry and his wife, Nancy, Jim Barry Wines produces award-winning Australian wines from over 320 hectares of vineyards in the Clare Valley and approximately 14 hectares in Coonawarra. The company also produces the only Australian Assyrtiko wine, from the indigenous Greek Santorini grape variety. This extraordinary Clare Valley wine is made in very small quantities from Riesling grapes sourced from the Florita vineyard located in the village of Watervale, about fifteen kilometers south of the town of Clare. The vineyard, whose name derives from the Spanish for "little flower," is characterized by shallow clay soils and was planted in 1946 with Palomino grapes for the production of Fino Sherry, and then replanted with Riesling in 1962. The grapes are carefully selected individually at night to preserve their freshness. On the nose, the wine releases a broad and fragrant bouquet with aromas of lemon zest, lime juice, and delicate citrus blossoms, over a mineral undertone. On the palate, it is dry and elegant, expressive, and taut. It has a good structure and a savory character. It is lean, vibrant, and crisp, with a long, refreshing finish and chalky notes. Try it with oysters, goat's cheese, or whitefish in lemon sauce.