2008 The Contours Riesling 10 Year Museum Reserve
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Tasting notes
Vintage was a time of extremes. Although it was very dry going into the harvest period, the Eden Valley had received good winter rains and was looking healthy and fresh. As February progressed the weather remained dry, mild and stable, and importantly the evenings were cool, all of which was perfect for maintaining the fine flavours and natural acids in Riesling. On 10 March a record heat wave commenced, but luckily most of the fruit was already picked and the last few blocks ready and so could be harvested quickly before any effect was seen. Marked as particularly dry on the back label. High-toned and floral – more refreshing than the richer 2009. Maybe less concentrated but this could be enjoyed as an aperitif rather than demanding food. Absolutely bone dry! I would guess it's not that much more than 12% alcohol. (JR)
Critic scores
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The late release of this single vineyard wine from Robert Hill Smith's family. 2008 vintage was a time of extremes. Winemaker Louisa Rose says, 'Although it was very dry going into the harvest period, the Eden Valley had received good winter rains and was looking healthy and fresh. As February progressed the weather remained dry, mild and stable and, importantly, the evenings were cool, all of which was perfect for maintaining the fine flavours and natural acids in Riesling.' Very satsifying, deep-flavoured wine at the peak of its toasty powers. Less nervy than the Florita 2009 but really great for devotees of mature Riesling. Solid. Wouild be great with food. The merest hint of oiliness, but overall VGV . (JR)
The gorgeous, evolving nose on the 2008 The Contours Riesling is replete with notes of beeswax, honeyed toast and lemon curd over hints of chalk dust, shaved almonds and fresh hay. Dry and light-bodied, it has a good backbone of acid to support the intense, evolving citrus fruit and mineral flavors right through the finish with great persistence and harmony. Drink it now to 2022+. Imported by Negociants USA, Napa, CA; Tel. (707) 259-0993