Brockenchack, Mackenzie William 1896 Riesling 2010

Most Sunshine Coasters would know Trevor Harch as a founder of the Evans Harch construction company, but in his “retirement”, he’s apparently exchanged his spirit level and measuring tape for some pruning shears and a tasting glass!

Trevor (and wife, Marilyn) have long been Barossa-philes and have recently added to their business interests with a range of “Brockenchack” wines (which, not surprisingly, are available at another Harch enterprise – Purple Palate).

The Eden Valley Riesling is a standout; but its quality is as much a product of being blessed by grapes from 100-year-old vines, as it is the winemaker’s skill.

Although I normally regard Riesling as a food wine, the Brockenchack is very approachable on its own, courtesy of the notes of green apple and pear that cross the palate followed by a tight, crisp finale. It’s nice to see a Riesling that finishes so cleanly without relying on flinty minerality for its steely crispness.

Good value and great to drink on its own.