Ridgeback Viognier 2019

AWARDS:

5 stars- Platter Guide (1 of only 3 viogniers to ever get 5 stars)

Double platinum -National Wine Challenge

91 points - Gilbert et Gallaird

WINEMAKING:

The grapes used in this premium wine were night harvested and destemmed in the early morning without crushing the berries, retaining a whole-berry component to press at about 70%.

The juice was settled overnight at 9 degrees Celsius and the clear juice was then gravity fed to 18% new 400 litre French oak barrels as well as a combination of second and third fill 400 litre French oak barrels.

All barrels underwent natural fermentation for the first 5 degrees balling and were then inoculated with a commercial yeast strain to ensure a clean ferment to dryness.

The wine was matured in barrel for 9 months and batonaged regularly to develop mouthfeel. Mid-palate and wood integration were further enhanced by the use of larger barrels.

A light filtration was done shortly before bottling.

TASTING NOTES:

Intense, upfront notes of citrus blossom, glazed pineapple, white peach and a hint of lavender. A creamy midpalate is well supported by subtle oak spice and lingering ruby grapefruit on the elegant finish.

13.5% Alcohol