"94 POINTS. A fresh and lively bouquet, then seamless citrus and mineral flavours running through the length of the well-balanced palate." - James Halliday.
We experienced quite cool conditions in February and that is a major key to having a very high quality Riesling vintage in the Clare Valley. The Olssen Riesling was picked in late February before the heatwave of early March. The 2008 Riesling has an intensely perfumed nose of citrus fruits and floral notes. On the palate it is fine and delicate with good concentration of flavour. Ripe-fruit acidity provides balance and structure to a wine that finishes long and dry.
Situated in a beautiful secluded valley north west of Watervale, the Olssen vineyard benefits from the shading effect of the steep valley sides, resulting in estate grown wines of great finesse and elegance.
Helen and Kevin Olssen moved to the valley from Adelaide in 1987 and since 1994 have been producing wines under their own label. The range now includes Riesling, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mataro, Primitivo, Late Harvest Riesling, Carmenere and Shiraz.
The Olssens' aim is to produce only limited quantities of high quality wines from their thirty-two hectares of vines. This unique vineyard in its wonderfully picturesque setting is one of Clare's best kept secrets.
Don't Pay: $20
WBW Rating: 94/100
Closure: Stelvin
Region: Watervale, SA
Winemaker: Kevin Olssen
Drink now until: 2018
Alc/Vol: 12.5 %
