Central Otago's Domain Road Vineyard, near Bannockburn, is sited in a sheltered valley which provides a unique micro-climate, ideal for producing premium quality wines.
Our Riesling vines are planted in the lower region of the vineyard where 19th century gold miners left an area of exposed mineral rich ‘pipe clay’, the remnants of a 10 million year old lake bed.
Water races were used by gold miners to carry water and are an iconic part of the Central Otago landscape, following the contours of the hills, often over many miles. Many are still in use today helping transform a dry landscape into useable farmland. Domain Road Vineyard, like many others, relies on the industry of early settlers and their water races to produce its wines, including our Dry Riesling.
The Wine
Hand harvested in April 2012, the grapes were whole bunch pressed and the juice inoculated with selected yeasts before undergoing fermentation in stainless steel tanks to retain varietal characteristics. Fermentation was stopped to retain a touch of residual sweetness from the grapes in order to give the wine balance and poise.
Pale straw in colour, 'The Water Race' Dry Riesling exhibits zesty lemon and lime aromas, with hints of honey and stone fruit. On the palate, this dry style Riesling has citrus and nectarine flavours, and delivers a focused acidity and long lingering finish.
Variety | 100% Dry Riesling - The Water Race |
Appellation | Central Otago |
Sub Region | Bannockburn |
Ph | 3.05 |
TA | 8.07g/l |
Alcohol | 12% by volume |
Residual Sugar | 5.6g/l |
Raymond Chan - Two Rieslings are made, ‘The Water Race’ Riesling 2012 (18.5+/20) is the dry interpretation at 5.6 g/L RS. This is mouth-wateringly pure and sports a very refined, delicate linearity and a seamless flow. The lime-like fruit combines thirst-quenching acidity and fruit lusciousness beautifully.
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