Henschke Julius Riesling 2024

Product Information: The 2024 Julius Riesling from Henschke is vibrant and expressive, showcasing an impressive intensity with intricate floral nuances held in reserve. The nose reveals fragrant aromas of makrut lime leaf, lemon zest, and floral hints of citrus blossom, frangipani, chamomile, and white clover. Subtle notes of spicy green peppercorn and anise add further complexity. On the palate, expect a core of fresh citrus and white peach, complemented by layers of clover, white musk, and pink grapefruit. The bright, laser-focused acidity compresses these flavours, driving the wine to a remarkably long finish. This 100% Riesling is sourced from the Henschke Eden Valley Vineyard, which is managed with organic and biodynamic practices, along with selected high-quality vineyards in the Eden Valley wine region. The wine is fermented in tanks and bottled post-vintage to preserve the delicate aromatic fruit characters. Maker: Henschke is one of Australia’s most prestigious and historic wineries, with over 153 years and six generations of family ownership. Located in Keyneton, South Australia, within the renowned Eden Valley wine region, Henschke has built a legacy of crafting premium wines, including its iconic single-vineyard wines, Hill of Grace and Mount Edelstone. Since 1862, the Henschke family has cultivated exceptional vineyards in the Eden Valley, Barossa Valley, and Adelaide Hills, with a focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation. Stephen and Prue Henschke, the fifth-generation winemaker and viticulturist team, have led the winery since 1979, restoring native vegetation and adopting organic and biodynamic vineyard practices. The sixth generation, led by Johann Henschke, continues to honour the traditions of the past while embracing modern winemaking techniques to ensure Henschke remains a leader in fine wine production. Henschke’s commitment to sustainability and excellence has garnered numerous accolades, including the Wine Enthusiast’s New World Winery of the Year (2021) and the Halliday Wine Companion’s Winery of the Year. The winery has also been recognised with the Robert Parker Wine Advocate Green Emblem, highlighting its dedication to environmentally conscious practices. Vineyard: The lead-up to the 2024 vintage in the Eden Valley was marked by significant rainfall in June, followed by a dry spring. Variable fruit set and frost affected yield potential, but timely December rains supported canopy and berry development. Mild summer weather, followed by warm, dry autumn conditions, allowed for optimal ripening and maturity. The result is fruit with pure, intense characters, balanced by stunning acidity and freshness. The vineyard’s sandy loam over gravel soils, managed with organic and biodynamic practices, enhance the Riesling’s depth and complexity. Nose – Frangipani, Lime Pastille, Flinty Notes Intense lime pastille, chamomile aromas with herb garden, hint flinty notes and supporting notes of spicy green peppercorn and anise. Palate – White Peach, Clover, Musk Beautifully concentrated and pure fruited riesling, with ample lime, lemon glacé fruits, fine bittersweet textures, a hint of tonic water and long fresh quartz-like acidity. Finish – Grapefruit Pith, Saline Acidity, Talc Minerals Wonderful volume and mineral length; the fruit density offsetting the lowish alcohol beautifully. Phenomenal length, some fruit sweetness fills in at the middle but is well balanced by a fine grip at the finish. Intense lime pastille, chamomile aromas with herb garden, hint flinty notes. Beautifully concentrated and pure fruited riesling, with ample lime, lemon glacé fruits, fine bittersweet textures, a hint of tonic water and long fresh quartz-like acidity. Wonderful volume and mineral length; the fruit density offsetting the lowish alcohol beautifully. This has all the hallmarks of a classic bottling. Delicious to drink now, but bottle age complexity beckons. – Andrew Caillard MW, The Vintage Journal, 97 Points. Crystalline pale lemon colour. Lime blossom, lemon pith and talcum aromatics. Palate fills with lively lemon and lime fruit, grapefruit pith and a crackle of saline acidity. Phenomenal length, some fruit sweetness fills in at the middle but is well balanced by a fine grip at the finish. – Stuart Knox, The Real Review, 96 Points. The Finer Details Style – White Wine Varietal – Riesling Country – Australia Region – Eden Valley, South Australia Vintage – 2024 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 11%