Bannockburn Riesling 2024

Located in the Central Otago region of New Zealand's South Island, the Bannockburn vineyard benefits from a continental climate characterized by significant temperature variations. The Felton Road vines are planted on north-facing slopes at moderate altitudes, in soils of loess, shale, and glacial gravel that ensure excellent drainage. This cool, sunny terroir allows for slow ripening of the grapes, preserving vibrant acidity and great aromatic purity—essential elements for the precise and crystalline style of this Riesling.

Sourced from biodynamically certified vineyards, the grapes are hand-harvested, sorted, and then pressed as whole bunches. The must is then clarified by gravity before a slow fermentation at low temperature, conducted primarily in stainless steel tanks to preserve the aromatic purity and tension of the wine. A small proportion may ferment in neutral oak barrels to add complexity and texture. Aging on fine lees continues for several months without new oak, before early bottling to retain the freshness and precision of the Riesling profile.

This wine reveals notes of vibrant citrus , stone fruit , and white-fleshed fruit , complemented by delicate floral touches and a mineral dimension reminiscent of wet stone. On the palate, the wine is precise and elegant, driven by a lively acidity that balances the slight residual sweetness, creating a sensation of great freshness. The texture is crystalline , with a saline and persistent finish that lingers the aromas and underscores the expression of the terroir.

Introduced in 1819, viticulture was greatly developed by Jean-Baptiste Pompallier, a French Marist missionary. Sent to Oceania in 1837, he settled there in January 1838 to develop New Zealand's vineyards. The first quality vineyards were established in the Hawke's Bay region during the 19th and early 20th centuries. After production setbacks initially caused by phylloxera and then the First World War, the vineyards began to expand again during the Second World War, doubling in size. Today, New Zealand has 10 major wine regions spread across the North and South Islands, the largest of which is Marlborough. Most of New Zealand's wine regions have a maritime climate. The country's long, narrow shape means that vineyards are never more than 120 km from the coast, and most are even much closer (with the exception of the semi-continental region of Central Otago). A mountain spine running through the center of the country protects most of the major wine regions from the strong westerly winds from the Tasman Sea known as the "Roaring Forties." Because of these winds, there are few wine regions on New Zealand's west coast. The quality and reputation of New Zealand wines are well established. Indeed, the country produces some of the best and most renowned Sauvignon Blanc in the world. And it's no coincidence that New Zealand has managed to make Sauvignon Blanc its symbol, alongside its sheep, kiwifruit, and the legendary haka!