2025 Rieslingfreak No.3 Clare Valley Riesling

Outstanding Value - Perfect Introduction to Clare Valley Riesling

95 points JamesSuckling.com

Premium Clare Valley Riesling from John Hughes

Critical Recognition
"The ultimate introduction to Clare Valley Riesling from a man who lives and breathes the stuff! Exceptional quality showcasing the purity and elegance that defines premium Clare Valley Riesling from one of Australia's most passionate Riesling specialists."

The 2025 Rieslingfreak No.3 Clare Valley Riesling represents the perfect introduction to understanding Clare Valley Riesling, crafted by John Hughes whose passion and expertise with the variety is unmatched in Australia. This exceptional wine delivers the classic Clare Valley character of citrus purity, mineral precision, and remarkable aging potential at an accessible price point. John Hughes' dedication to Riesling excellence creates wines of exceptional quality that showcase why Clare Valley is considered one of the world's great Riesling regions.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Pale straw with brilliant clarity and youthful vibrancy, displaying the pristine quality of premium Clare Valley fruit

Aroma: Intense bouquet of lime zest, lemon blossom, and green apple, enhanced by notes of jasmine, wet stone, and the distinctive mineral character that defines Clare Valley Riesling at its finest

Palate: Light to medium-bodied with razor-sharp acidity and excellent balance, displaying layers of citrus, lime, and green apple with hints of slate minerality and a distinctive backbone that promises exceptional aging potential

Finish: Long and refreshing with persistent citrus flavors and beautiful mineral complexity that showcases John Hughes' mastery of this noble variety

Wine Details

• Vintage: 2025
• Variety: 100% Riesling
• Region: Clare Valley, South Australia
• Winemaker: John Hughes (Rieslingfreak)
• Alcohol: 11.5-12.5%
• Serving Temperature: 8-10°C
• Cellaring: Drink now or cellar for 10-15 years

Food Pairings

• Fresh seafood and grilled fish - the citrus acidity complements delicate flavors
• Asian cuisine and spicy dishes - perfect balance for Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese
• Goat cheese and herb-crusted dishes - classic pairing with Riesling's acidity
• Summer salads with citrus dressing - refreshing match for warm weather
• Oysters and premium shellfish - mineral notes enhance seafood
• Aperitif service and outdoor entertaining - versatile and crowd-pleasing

Producer Background

John Hughes has established Rieslingfreak as Australia's most passionate advocate for Riesling, with an unwavering commitment to showcasing the variety's exceptional potential in Clare Valley. His expertise and dedication to Riesling excellence has earned him recognition as one of Australia's foremost Riesling specialists. The No.3 represents his accessible introduction to Clare Valley Riesling, delivering exceptional quality that welcomes newcomers while satisfying experienced Riesling lovers.

Regional Character

Clare Valley's unique combination of warm days and cool nights, ancient soils, and elevated vineyards creates ideal conditions for producing Riesling of exceptional character and aging potential. The region's distinctive terroir develops the intense citrus flavors, mineral precision, and natural acidity that define great Clare Valley Riesling. This wine captures the essence of what makes Clare Valley one of the world's benchmark Riesling regions.

Value & Investment

At $28, this wine represents outstanding value for premium Clare Valley Riesling from one of Australia's most passionate Riesling specialists. The combination of exceptional quality, proven aging potential, and John Hughes' expertise makes this both a pleasure to drink now and a smart investment for long-term cellaring. This is the kind of value that makes you stock up and share with friends to introduce them to great Australian Riesling.

Experience the ultimate introduction to Clare Valley Riesling - John Hughes delivers exceptional quality with outstanding purity and remarkable aging potential at $28.