Pikes The Merle Riesling

The Merle Riesling bottle image

Wine Description

The Merle takes its name from Neil and Andrew Pikes' mother. One of the genuine benchmarks for Clare Valley Riesling, the Merle is sourced from two specific blocks (the Gill's Farm and Hill Blocks) of one vineyard on the Pikes estate.  These vines, which are rooted deep in blue slate soils, constitute the oldest ungrafted vines on the property.

Fermentation in stainless steel tank is carried out by wild yeasts. Extended lees contact adds depth and texture on the palate and production is limited to several hundred cases per year.

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Acclaim
“Pike’s top Riesling features aromas of crushed stone and damp moss, while the flavors bring to mind tangy limes and underripe nectarines. It’s actually a bit rounder in feel than expected, then gains focus on the long finish.”
— Wine Enthusiast, Feb 2017
“Showing some signs of maturity, Pikes's medium-bodied 2014 The Merle Riesling is all honeyed on the nose, then lean, dry and almost chalky in texture on the palate, with overtones of marmalade, quince and citrus.”
— Joe Czerwinski, Feb 2020
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Vineyard & Production Info
Vineyard name
Pikes Estate
Soil composition
Red and Brown Clay over Blue Slate
Training method
VSP
Elevation:
1,155 feet
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Winemaking & Aging
Varietal composition:
100% Riesling
Type of aging container:
Stainless steel tanks
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Analytical Data
pH level:
2.8
Acidity:
8 g/L
Alcohol:
12.5 %
Residual sugar:
3 g/L