The NV Rieslingfreak No.7 Fortified Riesling is a bit of a curveball from Riesling specialist John Hughes. John, known as the “Riesling Freak,” has built a reputation for showcasing how versatile this grape can be, and the No.7 is a perfect example of that philosophy. Made in a white port style, this wine takes Clare Valley Riesling in an entirely different direction.
The grapes are picked from the family White Hutt vineyard, fermented partway, and then fortified with a brandy spirit before being aged in old oak casks for three years. What you get is a wine with caramel, sultana, and butterscotch flavours, alongside a touch of orange peel and dried fruits. It’s sweet but balanced, rich yet lifted by Riesling’s natural acidity.
This wine is ideal for pairing with desserts, chocolate, or cheese. It’s just one more example of John’s commitment to pushing Riesling beyond the ordinary.