Wines Clare Valley Pikes - Traditional Riesling - 2025

Pikes’ 2025 Clare Valley cuvée is a classic expression of dry Australian Riesling, a style renowned for its vibrant freshness and compelling regional character. The 2025 vintage from this respected estate hints at Pikes’ hallmark precision: the wine offers crisp citrus aromas, suggestions of green apple and lime zest, possibly with a subtle floral edge, and a mouth-watering, mineral-driven palate. The lively acidity and lean structure are typical of the Clare Valley, promising both immediate refreshment and the potential for graceful ageing in bottle. Vinification for these wines generally involves cool fermentation in stainless steel to preserve the purity and intensity of fruit, retaining the wine’s zesty and racy profile.

Clare Valley is one of Australia’s pre-eminent regions for Riesling, set in the state of South Australia. The area benefits from a continental climate: warm days build ripe flavours, while cool nights help maintain acidity and crispness. Unique terra rossa soils over limestone lend a distinctive minerality to the wines, making Clare Rieslings instantly recognisable. Pioneered by immigrants in the 19th century, Clare Valley has built an enviable reputation for whites of exceptional clarity and vibrancy, with Riesling standing as the region’s undisputed star.

Riesling in this style pairs beautifully with a wide variety of foods. Think delicate seafood—such as oysters or grilled prawns—which match the wine’s zesty profile, or try it alongside Asian-spiced dishes; its taut structure can handle fragrant, lightly spicy flavours. For a more local accent, serve with lightly battered fish or fresh goat’s cheese, both classic companions for Clare Valley Riesling’s lemony snap.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine well-chilled but not icy, ideally at 8-10°C. This brings out its aromatic complexity and refreshing palate while preserving its trademark clarity and drive. Decanting is unnecessary, though opening just before serving will allow the wine to show its lively best.