1998 was an incredibly good vintage for all varieties including riesling. It was a very hot summer and a long dry autumn. The riesling reached an excellent degree of ripeness before some of the most perfect noble rot we have seen began to develop. Four passes were made at one-week intervals selecting bunches which had 50% or more of the noble berries. Our aim is to capture the luscious complexity of the botrytis whilst still maintaining the elegance and purity of the riesling grape.

The whole bunches were gently pressed and the resulting juice was fermented slowly in cool conditions to ensure elegance and maximum retention of aroma and flavours. The fermentation stopped, retaining 120g/litre of residual sweetness giving a beautiful balance and the ability to age whilst keeping alcohol low to maintain elegance.

The aromas are of spicy lemon, lime, peach and nectarine with nuances of beeswax and honey. Extremely luscious upfront extending through the palate to a long dry grapefruity finish.

We are releasing this wine after a year of bottle age. It is drinking beautifully now but will improve in the bottle for up to 5-10 years developing toasty honey, beeswax and marmalade complexities.

This wine should be chilled before serving. This is not a dessert wine, however is an ideal accompaniment to soups, entrees and cheeseboards or simply by itself.

Wine is a natural health food.