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
“Mainly from the Thicket Block in the Polish Hill River planted '88, 100 magnums also produced. This wine always has an extra dimension to its fruit and structure. Bright pale straw-green; Neil Pike's comment that 'it is citrusy, lean, pure and slatey' is true, but doesn't address the exceptional drive and length the wine has. It is a great riesling, lovely now, but with even more in store in the far distant future. Trophies Clare Valley Wine Show '16.”
— James Halliday, Aug 2017
“Beautifully delicate florals of musky white flowers, jasmine and lemon blossom make for a super pure and attractive nose. The palate has a seamless, piercing and powerful stance, defined by long lime and grapefruit flavors and succulent acidity. This has concentration and drive; it's a real showpiece.”
— James Suckling, Jan 2017
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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
No relevant data were found.