Riesling 2006

Produced by: Wild Earth Wines Ltd
Consultant to Winemaker: Michelle Richardson
Viticulturalist: Peter Kerdemelidis

Vineyard notes:
The grapes for this wine came from our Bannockburn Estate Vineyard at the end of Felton Road. These vines are sited on a broad terrace close to the Kawarau River, with full exposure to northern sun. This harvest was the third for these vines and only the second time we have made our own wine from this fruit. The block of Riesling vines is a little less than two hectares – with 4,977 vines planted.

The 2005/06 season was one of the earliest and warmest on record for Central Otago with settled weather the norm throughout the spring, summer and autumn. It was also an exceptionally dry summer for the district, with the overall excellent conditions bring vintage forward by about three weeks. The advanced season allowed the fruit to reach physiological ripeness with ease, despite the larger berry size. The juice extraction rate was very low, reflecting the drier, warmer season and encouraging exceptional flavours.

Winemaking considerations:
Two fermentations were undertaken in order to deliver more depth and complexity to the overall wine. The tanks were inoculated and the must underwent a cool fermentation where temperature was controlled over a period of 6 weeks.

Fermentation was stopped by chilling in order to balance the natural acidity with residual sugar. The wine then sat on light yeast lees for 3 months prior to undergoing filtration and bottling.

Aromatic and Palate Comments:
Careful winemaking has ensured the wine retains a natural sweetness that perfectly balances the fresh acidity and concentrated fruit character. Created in a medium style, this wine is perfect as an aperitif or matched with Asian inspired cuisine.