Wine Review: Ottelia's energetic Mount Gambier Riesling

Coonawarra-based John and Melissa Innes are the fine folks behind Ottelia wines and the lovely eatery Fodder in Coonawarra. If you are heading down that way you have to drop in there for a bite to eat as the food is top-notch and the space now doubles as a cellar door facility where you can try the range of Ottelia wines.

I’ve been seeing a few wines pop up from the Mount Gambier area in recent times. This particular one is from the Ellis family vineyards to the south-west of Mount Gambier in the Kongorong area.

Maritime in climate there is an extended, drawn-out ripening period for the grapes allowing for increased accumulation of flavour and ripeness. Limestone is prolific in the soil profile, which ramps up the volume in the wine’s energy and minerality… perhaps more drive and line than the Rieslings further north in the state; a little more bound up and nervy but certainly no slouch in the glugability stakes.

Aromas and flavours of grapefruit and lime come to the fore along with hints of lemon thyme, Christmas lilies, crushed stone, almond paste and the lightest of herbal notes.

Focused and energetic on the palate with a precise flow, a tight, mineral framework and a lovely wash of grapefruit and citrus as the wine trails away. Quite lovely.

OTTELIA 2017 Mount Gambier Riesling

ottelia.com.au