Barrel Fermented Riesling 2022

Barrel Fermented Riesling 2022

Overview

A unique expression of Riesling, this wine was fermented and matured in French oak barrels for 12 months, with 85% undergoing barrel fermentation and malolactic fermentation. The result is a textural, dry style that combines creamy complexity with classic citrus and blossom characters, delivering both power and finesse.

Tasting Notes

Exotic and intriguingly spiced, this Riesling takes you on an unexpected journey. Aromas of cinnamon, cardamom, galangal and Thai basil intertwine with delicate citrus blossom and subtle oak influence. The palate is taut yet richly textured, balancing vibrant natural acidity with creamy complexity and impressive depth, finishing long, savoury and refined.

• Vegan Friendly

Vineyard

Fruit was sourced from our 49-year-old, 12-hectare dry-grown vineyard in Mount Barker, Great Southern. Unlike most modern vineyards, our vines are not irrigated, relying solely on natural rainfall. These low-yielding old vines produce small berries with concentrated flavour and exceptional character.

Planted on ancient gravelly loam soils in one of Australia's premier cool-climate wine regions, the vineyard is cane pruned and typically yields around two tonnes per hectare. The region's long, slow ripening season allows the fruit to develop remarkable flavour intensity while retaining freshness and natural acidity.

Vintage Comments

The 2022 vintage commenced around two weeks later than recent seasons, following a wet winter and spring and a summer marked by intense heatwaves and strong easterly winds. Cooler autumn conditions and timely rainfall encouraged slow, even ripening across the region.

Patience and careful vineyard management were rewarded, producing white wines with vibrant acidity, balance and outstanding ageing potential. The season favoured experienced winemaking and delivered fruit of exceptional quality.

Winemaking

Mount Barker is internationally recognised for producing outstanding Riesling, and this wine offers a contemporary interpretation of the variety. Approximately 85% of the wine was fermented and matured in French oak barrels for 12 months, with malolactic fermentation encouraged to soften acidity and build richness and texture.

The result is a Riesling that combines chalky minerality, lime and citrus blossom with subtle toasty oak and creamy complexity, while maintaining the freshness and precision expected of Great Southern fruit. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, it is beautifully balanced, highly drinkable and has excellent cellaring potential.