Naked Run Wines The First Riesling 2021

This Riesling is crafted exclusively from free run juice, which is the premium liquid that flows naturally from the grapes before any pressing occurs. This gentle extraction method captures the purest essence of the fruit, resulting in more delicate aromatics and refined flavours. Combined with fruit sourced from the high-altitude Sevenhill vineyard, this approach creates a wine with exceptional clarity and intensity that showcases the terroir beautifully.

The exceptional scores of 96 points from James Suckling and 95 points from Huon Hooke reflect the wine's outstanding balance and complexity. Naked Run Wines' three consecutive wins as best small producer at the Clare Valley Wine Show demonstrates their consistent quality and attention to detail. The combination of premium vineyard sites, meticulous winemaking techniques, and the producer's unwavering commitment to excellence has created a Riesling that stands out even in Australia's premier Riesling region.

Serve this wine well-chilled at 8-10°C to highlight its bright acidity and aromatic intensity. The citrus and mineral characteristics make it an excellent match for fresh seafood, particularly oysters, prawns, or grilled fish with herbs. Its crisp profile also complements spicy Asian cuisine, where the wine's natural acidity can balance heat while the lime and grapefruit notes enhance aromatic dishes like Thai salads or Vietnamese pho.

This Riesling showcases the classic Clare Valley style with vibrant citrus notes of grapefruit pith and lime cordial, complemented by delicate floral aromatics. The high-altitude vineyard contributes to the wine's pronounced minerality, creating a backbone that supports the bright fruit flavours. The light-bodied nature allows these flavours to dance on the palate, while the long finish ensures the citrus and mineral elements linger beautifully after each sip.

While this 2021 Riesling is absolutely delicious now, showcasing youthful vibrancy and fresh fruit character, Clare Valley Rieslings are renowned for their exceptional ageing potential. Over the next 5-10 years, the wine will develop more complex honeyed notes and deeper mineral characteristics while maintaining its signature acidity. The single vineyard pedigree and free run juice extraction suggest this wine has the structure to reward patient cellaring, evolving into something even more sophisticated with time.