Invitational Frankland River Riesling 2023

Appearance: very pale straw, green tinges

Aroma: lemon grass, fuji apple, citrus blossom, bison grass, lime sherbet, spring flower lift, apple blossom, detailed, ripe and intense

Palate: lemon grass, honeydew melon, green pineapple, ruby grapefruit, pawpaw; long yet full and juicy, good width with ample minerality

A cool dry winter gave way to a very wet and cool spring in Frankland River, topping up soil moistures but with chilly periods leading to issues with flowering and consequent low crops. Slow vine growth indicated a late harvest yet the new year brought dry windy conditions, necessitating some targeted critical irrigation. Nets went on early to ward off hungry silvereyes and crows due to poor Marri blossom. Frankland River had much less rainfall than the Porongurups yet the harvest was still late coming in mid-March giving a low crop of perfectly ripe, powerful fruit.

This is the first wine of our Invitational Vineyard series to be made for a second vintage. Mechanically harvested with a Pellenc (which sorts as it picks) during a cool evening, we delivered the whole berry fruit to the winery for an early morning pressing. Utilising a gentle sparkling program in a tank press to obtain the purest juice, the result is then cool fermented in stainless steel at 15C using a selected aromatic yeast. Aged on lees (grape and yeast solids) for two months to add texture and detail.

Frankland River is a warmer continental climate than Porongurups with warmer days and colder nights resulting in wines that have great acidity and freshness. The floral lift and minerality from this site are simply beguiling, serving as a great juxtaposition to our Magpie Hill Reserve Riesling.

Scallop ceviche with coconut milk and lime oil, grilled butterfish with fresh herbs and chili mango salsa, grilled feta bruschetta