Pewsey Vale Vineyard was first planted to Riesling by Joseph Gilbert in 1847. The site was later purchased by well known grazier Geoff Angas-Parsons whom in 1961 invited his friend Wyndham Hill Smith to jointly develop the historic vineyard site. They believed the site could produce "delicate Rieslings in the Germanic style".
High in Eden Valley (nearly 500m above sea level) the quality of the vineyard is a reflection of this altitude and the low-fertility, grey, sandy loam soils which prolong ripening into the cool autumn season. This long ripening period develops unique, consistent flavour profiles, which are now describe as 'classic Pewsey Vale'.
Grapes for The Contours Riesling, the flagship Riesling with 5 years bottle age, are selected from the oldest vines planted in contoured rows in 1962.
"94 points.... The combination of Eden Valley terroir, a stunning vintage and a terrific vineyard add up to this brilliant aged release. Pure lime and lemon butter, the edges are just starting to gather the toasty charm of bottle age. Elegant and precise flavours, fine acidity and impeccable balance, it is really starting to hit its straps. If you love great Australian Riesling you cannot afford to pass this by." Nick Stock & Tyson Stelzer, WBM 100 Wines Magazine (Aus), January 2008
