Frankland Estate ‘Smith Cullam’ Riesling 2023

This wine is made from 100% Riesling grown in the Isolation Ridge vineyard at Frankland Estate only when we think the season warrants it. Geisenheim Clone Riesling vines planted in 1988 on undulating northern and eastern facing slopes with duplex soils of ironstone gravel over a clay sub-soil. The vineyard is situated 256 meters above sea level. The cool nights and long slow ripening periods typical of the Frankland River region allow maximum flavour development while maintaining the distinctive vibrant acidity for which Rieslings from this region are renowned.

Picked in the early morning typically a few days before our Isolation Ridge Vineyard Riesling and whole bunch pressed for fermentation. The fermentation approach alters each year based on conditions and volumes. This year one parcel (40%), fermented naturally in old 500 litre oak over four to six weeks. The other 60% tank fermented parcel was treated similarly. Towards the end of fermentation, when the ideal balance of sugar, fruit weight and acidity had been achieved, the wine was chilled to arrest fermentation. The wine is retained on lees in barrel and tank for nine months where additional complexity and texture is achieved.