At Vinohero, we’re always on the lookout for extraordinary wines, and their hero producers who stand out in a world brimming with excellent talent. Today, we celebrate the incredible success of HATCH Wines, and famed winemaker Chris ‘Hatch’ Hatcher whose dedication to crafting superb Rieslings has earned rightful accolades at the The Drinks Business Global Riesling Masters awards.

This year, HATCH Clare Valley Watervale Riesling took home a Gold Medal, while the HATCH Eden Valley Flaxman’s Riesling was honoured with a Silver Medal, cementing their position as one of Australia’s finest producers of this noble grape variety.

The Drinks Business Global Riesling Masters: A Benchmark of Excellence

The Global Riesling Masters, hosted annually by The Drinks Business, is a revered competition that champions Riesling, one of the world’s most versatile and expressive grape varieties. Judged by a panel of Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, and seasoned industry experts, the awards recognise wines for their purity, precision, and ability to capture the essence of their terroir.

Winning at this level is no small feat. The blind-tasting format ensures that only the wine in the glass matters, removing any influence of labels or marketing. To emerge victorious is a testament to both the quality of the wine and the passion behind it.

HATCH Clare Valley Watervale Riesling – Gold Medal Glory

The Clare Valley is renowned globally for its exceptional Rieslings, and the HATCH Clare Valley Watervale Riesling is a shining example of why this region is so celebrated.

This Riesling impressed judges with its vibrant aromas of lime zest, and perfumed orange blossom, complemented by a palate bursting with powerful fruit intensity, citrus zest, and a crisp, mouthwatering finish. The signature Watervale terroir—known for its cooler climate and limestone soils—shines through in every sip, offering a balance of freshness and complexity that’s hard to beat.

The Gold Medal is a fitting recognition for a wine that doesn’t just reflect Clare Valley excellence but elevates it.

HATCH Eden Valley Flaxman’s Riesling – Silver Medal Success

Nestled in the cooler, high-altitude terrain of Eden Valley, the HATCH Eden Valley Flaxman’s Riesling brings a different but equally compelling expression to the table.

This wine captured the attention of judges with its floral aromatics of lime and jasmine, paired with a palate rich in stone fruits, and a fine natural acidity. The Silver Medal is a testament to the winemakers’ skill in showcasing Eden Valley’s unique terroir and delivering a wine that’s both elegant and powerful.

What Makes HATCH Wines Exceptional?

The philosophy behind HATCH Wines is rooted in a commitment to capturing the purest expression of Australia’s best Riesling regions. From meticulously selecting vineyard sites, HATCH ensures that each bottle is a true reflection of its origins.

By leveraging the distinct characteristics of both Clare Valley and Eden Valley, HATCH offers Rieslings that appeal to both traditionalists and adventurous wine lovers. These are wines designed to pair beautifully with food, enhance celebrations, and age gracefully for years to come.

The triumph of HATCH Wines at The Global Riesling Masters is a win for Australian Rieslings as a whole. While Riesling often takes a backseat to bigger, bolder varietals, awards like these reaffirm its place among the most sophisticated and versatile wines on the planet.

As we raise a glass to the team at HATCH Wines, let’s not forget to savour the story behind these award-winning bottles. Each sip is a journey—through the cool valleys of Clare and Eden, across limestone ridges and granite slopes, to the heart of Australia’s vibrant winemaking culture.

If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of HATCH Wines, now’s the time. Whether it’s the zesty brilliance of the Clare Valley Watervale Riesling or the delicate allure of the Eden Valley Flaxman’s Riesling, these award-winning wines deserve a place in your collection.

Head over to Vinohero.co.uk to explore the range of HATCH Wines featuring these elegant Riesling wines, and a pair of bold Shiraz showstoppers.