Kerri Thompson began crafting wines under her own label in 2007, with a seven year stint as head winemaker at Leasingham under her belt. I first tasted her Rieslings at my brother’s wedding at the Lake House in 2010 and then again, on the occasion of his 40th birthday dinner at Urbane later that year. Of course, I have no notes on either of those wines but the fact that they both made a mark on me, given the circumstances and the wines surrounding them, is no small feat.
This release is from the dry grown Peglidis vineyard in the Watervale subregion of the Clare Valley. I’ve generally thought of myself as an Eden Valley rizza man at heart but after this my loyalties may be divided.
Explosive aromas. Lime zest over green apple, bath salts and honeydew melon. Steely and focused but with a pretty floral lilt. Arcing natural acidity is balanced by a sherbet edge. Punch and drive. Sensational length and crystalline purity along with a chalky, textured finish that creeps up on you and then just won’t leave. This is special and quite thrilling. Only 210 cases made. Exceptional
Region: Clare Valley
Alcohol: 12.0%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $32
Tasted: September 2011