Grosset vs Duke's

A tale of two regions...so who produces Australia's best Riesling?

Jeffrey Grosset wears the unchallenged mantle of Australia’s foremost riesling maker. Grosset’s pre-eminence is recognised both domestically and internationally; however, he merits equal recognition for the other wines in his portfolio: Semillon Sauvignon Blanc from Clare Valley and Adelaide Hills, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the Adelaide Hills and Gaia, a Bordeaux blend from the Clare Valley; these are all benchmarks. Jeffrey's quietly spoken manner conceals a steely will. Four estate-owned vineyards in the Clare Valley are certified organic and biodynamic. Best Value Winery in the '18 Wine Companion. - JAMES HALLIDAY

When Hilde and Ian (Duke) Ranson sold their clothing manufacturing business in '98, they were able to fulfil a long-held dream of establishing a vineyard in the Porongurup subregion of Great Southern with the acquisition of a 65ha farm at the foot of the Porongurup Range. They planted shiraz and cabernet sauvignon (3ha each) and riesling (4ha). Hilde, a successful artist, designed the beautiful, scalloped, glass-walled cellar door sales area, with its mountain blue cladding. Great wines at great prices. - JAMES HALLIDAY