John Innes is a 30-year veteran of Coonawarra, with a deep knowledge of it and the surrounding region that he is putting to good use with his Ottelia project. Produced from grapes grown on the Innes family vineyard in Mount Gambier, the 2019 Ottelia Mount Gambier Riesling is another sensational, intensely flavoured example that offers wonderful value drinking at this price.
"95 Points. Machine-harvested, juice cold settled, racked and cold fermented for 3 weeks. Wine left on yeast lees up to fining and bottling. One of the coolest maritime sites on the mainland, and doesn't the riesling grape enjoy it! Mineral, sea breeze, saline with underlying spice and super-attractive florals, welcome the drinker. Then it's on to an energised palate with grapefruit pith, lemon and musk finishing with a cold, slatey acidity. A name to remember for riesling lovers. Screwcap. 11% alc. To 2034. $25" - Jeni Port, Halliday Wine Companion 2021.
"Not much more than a stone's throw south of Coonawarra, and more exposed to the cold winds coming offer the Great Southern Ocean, Mount Gambier's mix of flint and limestone soils give the wines serious character. This wine is delicate and vibrant in style, with floral and citrus fruits plus a touch of lemongrass. What I love most is its chalky minerality with a touch of flint smoke that gives it detail. The high acidity is well balanced with just a touch of sweetness. Watch this space" - Angus Hughson, Gourmet Traveller Wine, April / May 2020.
