European Grapes, New World Character: The Mr Riggs Collection

For centuries, Europe's great grape varieties have defined the world's most celebrated wine regions. Today, many of these same varieties have found an exciting new home in South Australia, where ancient soils, abundant sunshine, and diverse climates allow them to express themselves in entirely new ways. At Mr Riggs Wine Co., acclaimed winemaker Ben Riggshas dedicated his career to showcasing the remarkable potential of these classic European varieties, crafting wines that honour their origins while embracing the unique character of the Australian landscape.

Ben Riggs is recognised as one of Australia's most respected winemakers, with decades of experience working across some of the country's premier wine regions. His philosophy is simple: exceptional wines begin in the vineyard. By carefully selecting fruit from vineyards best suited to each variety, he allows every wine to tell its own story—one that combines the heritage of Europe with the vibrancy and purity of South Australia.

The following collection highlights four distinctive wines, each demonstrating how traditional European grapes can thrive in the New World.

Watervale Riesling

The Clare Valley has long been regarded as Australia's spiritual home of Riesling, and the Watervale sub-region consistently produces some of the country's finest examples. Cool nights and warm, sunny days preserve natural acidity while allowing flavours to develop with exceptional clarity and intensity.

The Mr Riggs Watervale Riesling opens with lifted aromas of fresh lime, lemon blossom, green apple and subtle white flowers. On the palate, vibrant citrus flavours are balanced by crisp acidity and a fine mineral backbone, creating a wine that is both elegant and refreshing. Its purity and precision make it enjoyable in its youth, while its structure also rewards careful cellaring.

This wine demonstrates why Riesling, a variety with deep European roots, has become one of Australia's greatest winemaking success stories.

Ein Riese Riesling

The name Ein Riese pays tribute to Riesling's heritage while celebrating its expression in Australia. Although inspired by the great wines of Germany and Alsace, this Riesling proudly reflects its South Australian origins.

Bright aromas of lime zest, grapefruit, jasmine, and delicate floral notes lead into a palate bursting with citrus freshness. A lively line of natural acidity provides length and energy, while subtle mineral characters contribute complexity and finesse.

Crisp, refreshing and beautifully balanced, Ein Riese is equally suited to enjoying on a warm afternoon or pairing with fresh seafood, Asian cuisine and light summer dishes. It captures the elegance of the Old World while embracing the generous fruit character that defines Australian Riesling.

Montepulciano d'Adelaide

Originally cultivated in central Italy, Montepulciano is perfectly suited to warm Mediterranean climates, making South Australia an ideal environment for this increasingly popular variety.

The Mr Riggs Montepulciano d'Adelaide displays rich aromas of blackberry, black cherry, plum and dark chocolate, layered with hints of dried herbs, spice and subtle earthy notes. The palate is generous and full-flavoured, with silky tannins and balanced acidity providing both structure and approachability.

This wine perfectly illustrates how traditional Italian grape varieties have adapted to Australian conditions, producing wines that retain their distinctive varietal identity while developing a unique New World personality. It is an excellent match for grilled meats, slow-cooked dishes, pasta and mature cheeses.

Yacca Paddock Tempranillo

Tempranillo has long been regarded as Spain's noble red grape, renowned for producing wines of elegance, savoury complexity and remarkable food friendliness. In South Australia, it has found an equally comfortable home, thriving in warm conditions that encourage both ripe fruit and balanced acidity.

The Yacca Paddock Tempranillo offers inviting aromas of ripe cherry, raspberry, plum and subtle spice, complemented by hints of tobacco, cedar and dried herbs. Medium-bodied with smooth tannins and a fresh finish, it delivers outstanding versatility both at the table and on its own.

Its approachable style reflects the adaptability of Tempranillo and demonstrates why Mediterranean varieties continue to play an increasingly important role in Australia's evolving wine landscape.

Ben Riggs: A Passion for European Varieties

Throughout his distinguished career, Ben Riggs has earned a reputation for producing wines that combine technical excellence with genuine regional character. His experience spans some of Australia's leading wineries, yet his own label, Mr Riggs Wine Co., reflects his personal philosophy of creating wines that are expressive, approachable and true to their origins.

Ben has long recognised that many European grape varieties are exceptionally well suited to South Australia's climate. Rather than simply replicating Old World styles, he seeks to showcase how these grapes evolve when grown in Australian vineyards. The result is a collection of wines that honour centuries of European winemaking tradition while expressing the sunshine, soils and individuality of the New World.

Every bottle in the Mr Riggs collection tells this story—one of heritage, innovation and craftsmanship. Whether it is the precision of Riesling, the richness of Montepulciano or the vibrant character of Tempranillo, these wines demonstrate that classic European varieties can flourish far beyond their traditional homes, producing wines that are unmistakably Australian while remaining true to their international roots.

European heritage. Australian terroir. Ben Riggs craftsmanship.That is the essence of the Mr Riggs collection.