Takahiro K Tussock Terrace Vineyard Riesling 2023, Waipara, NZD $38
This stunning wine is from vines planted in 2004 on the Glasnevin Gravels with gravelly, sandy soils, hand-picked, gently pressed and fermented slowly with learnings from Takahiro Koyama’s time in the Mosel. Balanced perfectly at 17 grams per litre of residual sugar, yet razor-like and not at all cloying, it is one to buy by the case and watch as it slowly evolves. A true stand-out riesling.
Pale white-gold. Initially reticent, with air it blossoms into a soaring bouquet with delicate layers of floral, sweet spiced citrus, flint and pith. The palate is ripe with bright, intense citrus and stone-fruit flavours, fantastic power and depth, savoury hints of bacon fat, pastry and vanilla on the long, long finish. A very successful example in the Germanic model: an impressive wine with density and ageability—it seems like etched marble. Expect it to develop gracefully for a long time. (Screwcap)
Score: 96 ★★★★★ – view original tasting note
Alcohol: 12.5%
Ageing: 2025 to 2042
Food: beautiful with white rind cheese or sashimi of sweet white fish
Stockist: Great Little Vineyards, Auckland and online; By The Bottle online (NZ only)
Ranked: #1 of 43 2023 Riesling from New Zealand
Awarded: Top Rank
This Article was originally published on The Real Review
