Estate Riesling

In 1969, after a considerable search, the Taylor family found a promising 178-hectare site by the Wakefield River in the Clare Valley. They were certain the soil – Terra Rossa (red loam over limestone) – would prove conducive to crafting wines of the highest quality. The contrast of warm days and cool nights in the Clare Valley would be equally beneficial – helping the grapes ripen in the day and allowing the vines to rest at night. Wakefield’s goal is to be Australia’s top wine company, applying best practice principles in environmental management to enhance sustainable business activities and products. Favoring use of the most innovative techniques available, the winery strives to improve energy efficiency, water conservation, and packaging. The Estate line are the first wines released by the Taylor family. When they established their winery in 1969, the wanted to establish an “old world” style winery in the Clare Valley, hence the name “Estate.” From their earliest vintages, they received enormous critical success and today, the Estate line represents the true “heart & soul” of Wakefield.

While sourced from across South Australia, vineyard sites are selected specifically to match the climate of the Clare Valley, the winery's home. Thus the Estate range embodies the Wakefield Clare Valley "house style." The Clare Valley is one of the cooler winegrowing regions of Australia. It is characterized by cool nights and bright, sunny days, which supports vibrancy, structure, and high acidity in the wines. The Clare Valley has some of the world’s oldest and most varied soils, dating 640m + years old. There are 11 different soil types but the predominant is Terra Rossa (red loam over limestone).

Destemmed fruit is gently pressed, then cooled to 50°F. This process is completed just 15 minutes after the grapes are harvested, to ensure preservation of the delicate fruit aromas and flavors. The must is cold-settled for 24 hours, then fermented in stainless steel vats. Minimal fining and filtering before bottling.

There is a bright, vibrant clarity to the wine. The wine displays lifted fresh and vibrant aromas. Lemon and lime citrus, followed by layers of subtle blossom and enticing floral nuances. The wine displays intense citrus fruit characters of fresh lemon and lime, along with hints of orange blossom. Tantalizing acid soars in the mid-palate, balanced by good fruit presence. The finish is crisp and resonates with citrus fruit.