2025 Forest Hill Vineyard Block 2 Riesling

97 POINTS

Erin Larkin - Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2025 Block 2 Riesling is softer and plusher than the Block 1 Riesling tasted next to it, and this shows in lime flesh, brine, green apple and crushed rocks. The Rieslings of the Great Southern carry the mineral drive of those from Eden Valley and, in some cases, the flesh of Clare, which we see here. This region in the southwest of Western Australia is quite unique in Australia in that it is incredibly remote, almost harsh in its landscape, vast and diverse, given its size. The soils around the Mt. Barker area are largely composed of ironstone gravel soils and lateritic gravelly sandy loams derived from granite and gneissic bedrocks. These soils are particularly well-suited to Shiraz and Riesling, which we can see here. This is a magnificent wine, and while I often prefer the Block 1 over the Block 2, it is not so this year. Is there a touch of residual here? If so, I like it. The vineyard block was planted in 1975. 12.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.

95 POINTS

Mike Bennie - Halliday Wine Companion

A bright and juicy version of the variety, vibrant and cooling, citrusy in a pretty way. Some rosy lift and a general sense of lemongrass and ginger brightness in the mix. So even, flowing, deeply flavoursome. A pleasing and generous style of riesling, unashamed of its origins and feeling pure and natural as it goes. Delicious. Serious. Complex.

94 POINTS

Campbell Mattinson - The Wine Front

Quality wine but it’s also the kind of wine that puts a smile on your face. It’s a wine with a bit of joy in its heart. It’s citrussy and floral with gentle notes of mineral and lemonade; it feels unforced and fluid throughout; on the finish it adds orange rind notes. It’s the sophisticated face of deliciousness.

93 POINTS

Angus Hughson - Vinous

The 2025 Riesling Block 2 is aromatic, offering piercing aromas of lime and raw spices. Punchy, mouth-watering acidity delivers a linear and refreshing style that is young, tight and built to enjoy over the medium term.