Kilikanoon Mort's Block Riesling 2022

Watervale, within Clare Valley, is renowned for producing some of Australia's most age-worthy Rieslings due to its unique terroir of ancient slate and limestone soils. The granitic minerality evident in Mort's Block reflects this geological foundation, which imparts a distinctive mineral backbone that allows the wine to develop complex honeyed characters over decades. Unlike the more floral Eden Valley style, Watervale Rieslings like this one tend to be more structured and weighty, with that characteristic waxy texture that coats the palate.

Store this Riesling in a cool, dark place at 12-15°C with consistent temperature and humidity around 70%. The wine's natural acidity and mineral structure make it perfect for cellaring, where it will develop toast, honey, and petrol notes - the hallmark of aged Riesling. During the first 5 years, expect the citrus and green apple flavours to integrate with emerging honeyed complexity, while the granitic minerality will become more pronounced. After 7-10 years, you'll discover the full potential of this exceptional vintage.

The wine's waxy texture and mineral backbone make it exceptional with fresh seafood, particularly oysters, sashimi, or grilled fish where the slate-like minerality complements oceanic flavours. The citrus-driven palate and boisterous finish also pair beautifully with spicy Asian cuisine, as Riesling's natural acidity cuts through rich sauces while the wine's weight stands up to bold flavours. For cheese, try it with aged goat's cheese or washed rind varieties that echo the wine's developing complexity.

The exceptional ratings reflect this wine's perfect expression of single-vineyard Watervale terroir combined with meticulous winemaking - 100% hand-picked fruit ensures only the best grapes were selected. Critics recognised the wine's complexity beyond typical linear Riesling styles, noting how it balances immediate citrus appeal with serious ageing potential. The combination of pristine fruit expression, mineral complexity, and structural integrity that promises decades of development is exactly what top wine critics look for in premium Australian Riesling.

Granitic minerality refers to the distinctive mineral flavours and textures imparted by decomposed granite in the vineyard soil, creating that characteristic slate-like taste and slightly gritty texture on the palate. In this Mort's Block Riesling, the granitic influence adds structural backbone and complexity, moving the wine beyond simple fruit flavours into more sophisticated territory. This minerality acts like a flavour amplifier, extending the finish and providing the foundation that allows the wine to age gracefully while maintaining freshness and developing those coveted honeyed notes over time.