Local rising star Ben Straw of The Straw Collection presented an evening of Riesling Around the World this month. Ben was able to demonstrate not only what a versatile and adaptable grape Riesling is, but how differently it is treated across the globe. From the slightly austere off-dry Villa Wolf Dry Riesling of the German Pfalz, via the bone-dry minerality of the Yealands from Marlborough, New Zealand, through to the full and luscious Eroica from Chateau Ste Michelle of Washington State USA (the pick of the night). What different winemakers from separate lands do with the same grape was an education in itself.
Ben was on good form, too, and gains confidence in his presentation every time he comes to see us. We’ll see you again soon, Ben!