Description
Skillogalee wines produce top class Clare Valley riesling. Skillogalee took its name from legend that goes back to the 1840’s when explorer/pioneer, John Horrocks became lost and survived on a `Skilly’ (gaelic word meaning broth) made of grass and seeds.
Skillogalee was established in 1970 with the first wines released in 1976. The 1978 dry riesling won major trophies at the Adelaide Wine Show and the National Wine Show, putting Skillogalee firmly on the Australian winemaking map! The vineyards were planted in the early 1970s on what was then, at almost 500 metres above sea level, one of the highest vineyards in South Australia.
The Estate Riesling is crafted from dry-grown vines situated on the sloping hills of the family-owned estate in the Sevenhill subregion of the Clare Valley. These low-yield vines are carefully tended to by hand, following sustainable farming practices for both the preservation of the land and the authenticity of the wine’s terroir.
About this wine from the winemaker: “A lively palate with crisp acidity, notes of Tahitian lime, soft florals, and subtle mineral hints, embodying the ancient soils and breathtaking landscape of Skillogalee. Crafted from dry-grown vines on the sloping hills of our family-owned estate in the Sevenhill subregion of the Clare Valley, the 2024 Estate Riesling embodies the heart of Skillogalee’s terroir. These low-yield vines are carefully tended by hand, following sustainable farming practices that preserve the land while capturing the authentic character of each vintage.
“This Riesling is vibrant and invigorating, showcasing refined acidity and a brisk splash of Tahitian lime, complemented by delicate floral scents and subtle mineral undertones. Its vivid flavours and elegant composition are a true reflection of our ancient soils and the remarkable landscape of Skillogalee. The wine’s striking liveliness on the palate makes it perfect for immediate enjoyment, while its structure promises graceful enhancement with careful ageing.
“In crafting the Estate Riesling, we wait patiently for the grapes to reach the perfect balance of ripeness, flavour, and acidity. Harvested by hand at their peak, the grapes are treated as separate parcels during the winemaking process. Each parcel is fermented individually, allowing our small winemaking team to highlight the unique characteristics of each block. The final blend is meticulously crafted just before bottling, resulting in a wine that is balanced and structured, ready to be enjoyed today or cellared for the future.
“The 2024 vintage exemplifies the art of precision in vineyard care and a keen response to nature’s rhythms. A particularly wet winter and spring led to a slower onset of the growing season, culminating in well-timed flowering and a March harvest. Minimal rainfall from Christmas to March contributed to the remarkable flavour development and ideal acidity in our white varieties, particularly the Riesling. Despite early challenges, the season’s resilience and our dedicated cultivation practices have resulted in wines that truly embody the celebrated terroir of the Clare Valley.”
93 points, Mike Bennie for Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion “Tight and lacy style with plenty of citrus oomph. There’s also a really pleasing undertow of talc-like minerality and requisite powdery texture that elevates the wine, too. Some gingery notes barely there, green apple likewise, pink grapefruit and that sense of ‘floral’ generally floating around. Delicious, lighter weight, refreshing and very well balanced.”
RRP $33 **Our Special Price – $23.99 when you buy 6 or more of this wine*
