2025 Pikes Traditionale Riesling

Pikes Traditionale is one of those wines that just delivers, year in, year out. This is the 41st release, and it comes off the back of a seriously tough season in the Clare Valley. It was the second driest year on record, with a frost hitting the Polish Hill River vineyard right after budburst. But the vines adapted, producing small yields of incredibly concentrated fruit.

The winemaking keeps things simple to let that concentration shine. They use only free-run juice and neutral yeast, giving it three months on lees to settle. It preserves that distinct regional character without masking anything.

In the glass, it is classic Clare. You get hit with lemon blossom, lime zest and crisp Granny Smith apple. The palate is punchy and approachable, leaning into that lime cordial flavour with a tight line of acidity that runs right through the finish. At just 11% alcohol, it is light on its feet but has the structure to live for a decade if you want to tuck some away. Perfect with fresh oysters.

95 points
"A super delicious youngster already showing plenty of Clare Riesling personality
with its florals, citrus and fragrant bath powder aromas."
- Andrew Caillard MW (Vintage Journal)

94 points
"It never fails to disappoint, and it’s another excellent example of what Pikes can do."
- Ray (Wine Pilot)