The 2017 Block 1 Riesling weighs in at the same exact level of residual sugar (63 grams per liter) as the regular bottling, but at an extra half-degree of alcohol, it comes across as slightly sweeter. Ripe nectarine and candied pineapple are joined by hints of bergamot and lime zest. This is dense, with an almost creamy texture to it that flows seamlessly across the palate. These 2017s are some of the most exciting New World Rieslings I've ever tried.

The 2017 Block 1 Riesling manages to avoid the reductive issues that many of New Zealand’s Rieslings seem to exhibit. This offers attractive lychee and tinned apricot scents, almost Gewürztraminer-like in style. The taut, linear palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity and a fresh, lively, irresistible finish that lingers in the mouth. Excellent.