2025 Claymore “Joshua Tree” – Citrus, orange blossom, and limestone minerality from the Clare Valley’s oldest Riesling vines

In the Watervale region of the Clare Valley, where limestone lies close to the surface and the climate is among the hottest and driest in South Australia, a Riesling grows that is truly unparalleled. Claymore Wines is the custodian of some of Australia’s oldest Riesling vines still in production—planted in the 1930s and rooted in the same soil for decades. These are complemented by younger plots from the last 20 to 30 years, all located exclusively within the Watervale growing region. The 2025 vintage was one of the driest, warmest, and earliest the Clare Valley has ever experienced—and produced a “Joshua Tree” that begins its first year of life with concentrated fruit and almost electric freshness.

For the “Joshua Tree,” Claymore selects the best from three vineyards each year: The warmer southern vineyards contribute floral notes and aromatic depth, while the northern Shankly Vineyard stands out for its greater fruit intensity and precise acidity balance. All grapes come exclusively from the estate’s own vineyards—no purchased grapes, no compromises. The winery’s philosophy—gentle fermentation, maximum varietal expression, minimal intervention—translates directly into the glass.

What makes the Claymore “Joshua Tree” Riesling so special?

The “Joshua Tree” is one of Australia’s most award-winning Rieslings from the 2025 vintage: Gold at the Intercontinental Wine Challenge, 94 points / 5 stars from Sam Kim (Wine Orbit), 94 points from Ken Gargett (Wine Pilot), and additional 90–93-point ratings from a total of six renowned tasters make its commitment to quality unmistakably clear. What makes it even more unique is access to vines that have been rooted in the Watervale soil since the 1930s, lending the wine a depth and mineral complexity that young vines simply cannot achieve. With just 11.0% alcohol and the natural acidity of the Watervale terroir, this Clare Valley Riesling is a wine with genuine aging potential—enjoyable today, magnificent in six to eight years.

And how does the Claymore “Joshua Tree” Riesling 2025 taste?

In the glass, it glows with the palest gold and a delicate green shimmer—clear, pure, and inviting. The nose is explosively fresh: lemon and lime come to the fore, accompanied by a delicate hint of orange blossom that lends the bouquet a floral elegance. On the palate, the strength of the Watervale terroir unfolds: an exquisitely fine, natural acidity carries the wine, while intense lemon pulp aromas emerge, embedded in the unmistakable minerality of the limestone soils. The finish lingers with notes of grapefruit—long, fresh, subtle, and precise. A Riesling that shines even in its youth and gains depth and complexity with every year spent in the cellar.