Clare Valley

Grosset has built up a reputation as one of Australia’s best producers, particularly acknowledged as Australia’s king of Riesling, an iconic estate that has almost single-handedly been responsible for the renaissance of Clare Valley Riesling. The likes of Hugh Johnson quoted as saying that it is "One of Australia's best small wineries, producing delicious Riesling". In Robert Parker’s view, “It is one of the finest New World Rieslings money can buy”. Jeffrey Grosset, an oenology graduate, gained vast experience with large Australian wine companies, such as Lindemans, before starting his own winery in 1981 in the historic township of Auburn, in the Clare Valley, Australia. The winery is based in a picturesque old butter and ice factor.

These vineyards have the most advanced vine canopy management in the region and the virtual absence of chemicals in pest and disease control is unique. Jeffrey Grosset has been held in such high esteem amongst his peers for his work with the Riesling grape that back in 1998 he won the accolade of 'Riesling Winemaker of the Year' in Hamburg, Germany.

A testament to his winemaking efforts, is his Polish hill Riesling being rated in the Langton’s classification as exceptional (only 17 wines in total and only 3 of these being white wine make this grade) alongside other iconic wines such as Penfolds Grange and Clarendon hills Astralis. The 2015 vintage marks the 35th anniversary of his winery which was established in 1981.

The Polish Hill displays a hint of lime juice, lemon grass, lifted floral aromatics of orange blossom, more open than other Polish Hill Rieslings I have had in the past. As refined as ever on the nose, this wine displays amazing poise that is tightly coiled around a steely, chalky backbone.  The palate is refined and linear, persistent, deep and long, a lovely grape pith grip on the tannins. Great care and attention has been given to this wine and it shows in its depth of flavour. The refinement of this wine makes it approachable now but will effortlessly age over the next 10 years, the patient amongst you will be rewarded.
Stuart Rae, Private Account Manager

The eight hectare Polish Hill vineyard is at 460 metres altitude and is just five kilometres from Springvale. Its infertile, shaley soil is slightly acidic and its topsoil has a clay and shale crust. As the vines have to work harder than those at Springvale, it produces smaller, distinctly flavoured and concentrated berries.

It’s the explosive flavours of the Grosset Polish Hill 2016 that distinguish this vintage with power and tremendous intensity of flavour. The bouquet has lavender, a touch of lime and some minerally notes while the palate has surprising generosity, lime juice characters and some characteristic chalkiness. It is tight, uber-fine with steely structure, before a dry finish featuring pure natural acidity and hints of schisty mineralogy.

While there’s no doubting its longevity, there will be many who will love this Polish Hill in its youth. Ageing Potential: 6-15 years, up to 20 years

A personal favourite of mine and the Riesling that opened my eyes to this wonderful grape, it would be easy to get misty eyed and assume this is great. Thankfully, the 2017 lives up to its billing and might be one of the best wines Jeff Grosset has ever made. Taut with vibrant citrus, especially the lime lead character that Clare is famous for, this is ultra-steely and mineral, seeming to go on forever. Sensational stuff. This will benefit from 5 or 6 years in the cellar to open up. Sign me up for at least a case! Drink 2022 to 2030+.
Fergus Stewart, Private Account Manager

Almost translucent in the glass, the nose reveals a delicate floral bouquet of elderflower and white rose petals, complemented by a soft white peach character. The palate is pleasingly balanced with a slightly rounded texture, a lemon tinged acidity running neatly through it, carrying flavours of greengage and orange zest throughout. A light styled Riesling which is crisp and clean, and rather moreish on the long finish. Attractive for drinking in its youth yet will offer enjoyment over the coming 5-7 years; drink from 2018 – 2025.
Chris Lamb, Private Account Manager

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2010 The Armagh Shiraz flaunts a gorgeous aromatic red and black fruit core intermingled with clove, chocolate box, and eucalyptus aromas that are still very primary. Bottled under screw cap, it has a really fine palate that is very elegant yet powerful. With vibrant acid, firm and very fine tannins, the flavors are rich and layered with spices coming through on the long finish. Drink it from 2015 to 2030+. 
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate - eRobertParker.com - Nov 2015