Product Description
The Jim Barry Single Vineyard McKay's Riesling 2023 is a beautifully expressive wine that showcases the unique terroir of our McKay’s Vineyard in Watervale, Clare Valley. This small-batch, vintage-specific project is part of our commitment to producing wines that reflect the very best of each vineyard we own. Sourced from one of our most distinctive vineyards, this Riesling was harvested slightly later than usual to create a more generous and opulent style, while still maintaining the crispness and precision for which Clare Valley Rieslings are renowned.
A small parcel of this wine underwent cool fermentation in aged French oak barrels, adding a layer of texture that enhances the wine’s complexity. The result is a wine with aromas of fleshy white nectarine, lemon tart, and lifted bath salts, while the palate is rich with citrus, stone fruit, and mineral nuances. A seamless flow of bright white florals and zesty citrus creates an elegant finish that lingers with refreshing acidity. This Riesling is a testament to the exceptional quality of our family-owned vineyards, and it will continue to evolve beautifully in the bottle for years to come.
Maker
Jim Barry Wines is a name deeply woven into the fabric of South Australia's Clare Valley, a region renowned for its world-class wines. Established by Jim Barry, the first qualified winemaker in the Clare Valley, the winery’s legacy is one of pioneering spirit, innovation, and a commitment to producing exceptional wines. Jim’s journey began in 1947 when he graduated from Roseworthy Agricultural College, and over the following decades, he played a pivotal role in shaping the Clare Valley into a benchmark region for Riesling and premium Australian wines.
Jim’s early mentorship from Napa Valley’s Robert Mondavi helped solidify the vision for Leeuwin Estate and the Barry family's future in winemaking. Today, Peter Barry, Jim’s son, serves as the managing director, continuing the family’s legacy of producing site-expressive wines with dedication and precision. Now, three generations of the Barry family work alongside a skilled team to produce outstanding wines from the family’s extensive portfolio of vineyards in the Clare Valley and Coonawarra regions. The estate’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and respect for the land ensures that Jim Barry Wines remains at the forefront of Australian winemaking.
Philosophy
The philosophy of Jim Barry Wines is rooted in a profound respect for the land, combined with a commitment to crafting wines that express the very best of their terroir. The Barry family believes that the key to exceptional wine starts in the vineyard. Their focus on owning and managing their own vineyards allows them to control every aspect of the winemaking process, from soil management to harvesting. This meticulous care ensures the production of high-quality fruit, which is the foundation of the winery’s success.
With over 60 years of winemaking experience, Jim Barry Wines has developed a deep understanding of the diverse microclimates and soil profiles across their vineyards. The family’s dedication to excellence is reflected in their work with low-yielding, old-vine fruit, which is key to crafting wines of depth, complexity, and exceptional character. From the iconic Armagh Shiraz to the world-renowned Florita Riesling, each wine from Jim Barry Wines is an expression of the unique land and the family’s ongoing commitment to creating wines that tell the story of the Clare Valley’s rich winemaking history.
The Jim Barry Wines philosophy celebrates the balance between traditional winemaking techniques and innovative approaches, ensuring that every bottle produced is a testament to the winery’s unwavering dedication to quality and craftsmanship. The family’s vision, passed down through three generations, continues to shape the future of Jim Barry Wines, ensuring its place at the forefront of the Australian wine industry.
Tasting Notes
Nose
White Nectarine, Lemon Tart, Bath Salts
Vibrant and complex, with aromas of fleshy white nectarine, lemon tart, and a delicate lift of bath salts. These scents create an inviting, layered bouquet that promises a wine of depth and elegance.
Palate
Citrus, Stone Fruit, Wet Stone
The wine is well-weighted and textured, delivering a beautiful balance of citrus, stone fruit, and wet stone flavours. The texture is smooth and seamless, allowing each layer of flavour to unfold gracefully, while a subtle minerality adds complexity to the mid-palate.
Finish
White Florals, Zesty Citrus, Refreshing Acidity
Clean and crisp, with a lift of white florals and vibrant citrus, leading to a long, refreshing finish. The wine’s natural acidity ensures a balanced and elegant conclusion, enhancing its overall finesse and longevity.
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Riesling
Country - Australia
Region - Clare Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2023
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 12%