Tasting notes:

The Pike family story began back in 1868, when Henry Pike was selling ales, soft drinks and cordials in South Australia. The expansion into wine – family-owned and operated – was established in the Polish Hill area of Clare Valley in 1984 and focuses especially on Riesling. The Merle Riesling is named after the family matriarch and is made from selected parcels from the family estate. Pale lemon-green in colour, the wine shows youthful green fruit, accented by white pepper, orange and tangerine zest. Bone-dry, the palate has high extract and good concentration, giving medium body, and the flavours are supported by brisk acidity. Mineral and a touch earthy on the finish, with exotic spices following through. A very good choice for Chinese dim sum or Japanese sushi now, but will develop more texture and layers with further ageing, and then will be an excellent match for creamy asparagus, mushroom and fresh green pea risotto. (Patricia Stefanowicz MW)