Rieslings as a Religious Experience. Central Otago has the distinction of being the world’s most southerly wine region (Patagonia claims to be further south by my calculation puts it on the same latitude as Marlborough). Although best known for its vibrant, juicy pinot noir, Central Otago is also capable of making absolutely cracker riesling. Here are a couple of my current favourites.
Misha’s Vineyard 2009 Limelight Riesling $25 (Bob’s Best Buys). Misha’s Vineyard has just three vintages under its belt but is already proving to be one of Central Otago’s great wine producers. Their 2008 Limelight Riesling was very good but the slightly sweeter 2009 is a real stunner. It’s a lovely, juicy wine that begs to be sipped and sipped again. A hint of sweetness is perfectly balanced by pure, knife-edged acidity. I’m tempted to describe the acidity as “sweet” but that makes little sense – until you try the wine. Flavours 8include stone fruit (a medley of different fruits rather than specific types), lime and an exquisite, almost salty, mineral character. The wine will age well although I find it difficult to resist now.
(Bob Campbell, Kia Ora, Air New Zealand In-Flight Magazine March 2010)
