Mount Horrocks 2026 Watervale Riesling

 

Mount Horrocks is a seriously boutique producer in the Clare Valley. Vigneron Stephanie Toole makes only 3,000 cases a year, and just 500 cases of this stunning riesling. All her wines are organic and biodynamic and this new release is gloriously vibrant - a classic example of dry Watervale riesling. Crisp, crunchy and extremely food friendly, it is described by Toole as "a wine of immense purity and finesse".  Think floral aromas, lifted citrus notes, river pebble minerality and brisk acid on the finish. Pair this taut number with salt and pepper squid, or pan-fried sardines. Lovely, and great value. $45. https://www.mounthorrocks.com/ 

Unico Zelo 2025 Pastafarian

Fresh and vibrant, this Clare Valley sangiovese from innovator Brendan Carter and the team at Unico Zelo in the Adelaide Hills is disarmingly drinkable. I had had a couple of sips with my spaghetti bolognaise and the bottle was mysteriously half empty. That might be because this is the unofficial wine of the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, or be simply because it is a damn good drink. Distributed by Franc About Wine, the most recent vintages have been sangiovese based after the wine started out as a nebbiolo. Looking for a wine to take to your local pizza or pasta joint? You've come to the right place. $36. https://www.unicozelo.com.au/

Mount Horrocks 2025 Watervale Riesling

 

Stephanie Toole is one of the very best riesling makers in Australia and this new release can only add to her reputation, particularly as peak seafood season is with us. Whether you are grilling some prawns on the barbecue, grabbing some takeaway fish and chips or crafting a lobster salad you won’t go wrong with this exquisitely nuanced dry riesling from a small, family-owned, organic/biodynamic producer. Think lime essence, slatey minerality, intense energy and tight acidity. Everything you’d want from a Clare Valley riesling from a perfect vintage. $42. https://www.mounthorrocks.com/