96 points - "If one might state out the outset, this is a serious contender for the best value of the year. A brilliant wine, superbly handled, from a great vintage and, of course, a magic region. The fruit here hails from the Castine “Hayshed” block. There is early complexity here, but it will undoubtedly increase in the coming years. Very pale straw in colour, the nose exhibits notes of spices and limes. An array of lifted fragrances, this is both delicate and yet intense. There is elegance and the finish is incredibly persistent. Knife edge balance. What a cracking Riesling! And the value? This is as close to legalising theft as possible. An incredibly good buy. This has fifteen to twenty years ahead of it." - Ken Gargett (Wine Pilot)

95 points - "Keeda Zilm is the keeper of the flame maintaining the late John Vickery's legacy and she's nailed this Reserve Watervale Riesling. What a masterclass this is in capturing the freshness and vibrance of Riesling all the while keeping in mind this has three years already under its belt. Whoa! Lemon curd, lime zest and citrus oil rush at you. There is a devilishly moreish phenolic grip as lime juice coils around the mouth. A wine with measured calmness, the shape and elegance glides in top gear. A brilliant expression of Riesling from top to toe that is captivating and joyous now yet it will reward patience for many years yet. Drink to ten years+" - Steve Leszczynski (Q Wines)

95 points - "Sourced from the Castine Hay Shed block in Watervale. I've made an entry in my 'little book of vices' that I must purchase a case of this when it is released (October 2024). There's two reasons. Firstly, John Vickery sadly passed away in 2023, and drinking this wine will remind me of my conversations with him over the years. Secondly, it's a cracking wine. Perhaps a little more intensity than the 2020 release, but still it's all limey precision with citrus blossom, apple sorbet and dried honeyed overtones. Long, dry and pure with minerality to burn." - Dave Brookes (Halliday Wine Companion)

After three tough dry years, 2021 was a cooler, milder vintage with more rain during the growing season than previous ones which resulted in lively wines with a great backbone of acidity. In 2021, a small parcel from the Castine “Hayshed” block stood out for its unique character and potential for ageing and was kept separate from the main Watervale blend. The ‘Hayshed Block’ has east-west row orientation and a gentle west facing aspect. The vineyard sits at approximately 420m above sea level from top to bottom.

The grapes were harvested and immediately taken to Watervale for pressing to avoid extended skin contact and over extraction of phenolics. Made using the classic methods of the great John Vickery, light pressings material was included to develop structure and longevity but finessed to avoid excessive extraction or bitterness. The wine has been maturing in our temperature controlled cellar until its release on John Vickery’s birthday.