Riesling: A Timeless Story of Terroir and Craftsmanship

Exploring Riesling: A Classic Reimagined at Seppelt

Riesling is one of the most distinguished and expressive white wine varietals in the world. Likely originating in Germany’s Rhine Valley, this ancient varietal boasts a storied history, even reflected in the design of its iconic Mosel or Alsatian bottle. Originally created for practical purposes, this slender shape made Riesling easy to stack and transport, facilitating its journey along the Rhine River on small boats and ships. Today, the elegant silhouette remains synonymous with Riesling and other German varietals such as Gewürztraminer and Grüner Veltliner.

Riesling’s influence spans far beyond Europe, finding a second home in Australia, which ranks second only to Germany in total Riesling plantings. Australian winemakers have embraced a minimalist philosophy with Riesling, focusing on letting the grapes speak for themselves. This approach results in wines that are celebrated for their clarity, freshness, and vibrant acidity. Unlike their German counterparts, Australian Rieslings are often drier, with hallmark lime notes and a touch of higher alcohol content, creating a uniquely refreshing and expressive profile.

At Seppelt, our passion for this remarkable varietal shines through in two distinct expressions: the cool-climate brilliance of the Drumborg Vineyard Riesling and the terroir-driven elegance of the Great Western Riesling.

Drumborg Vineyard Riesling: A Legacy of Excellence

The 2024 Drumborg Vineyard Riesling exemplifies the heights that cool-climate winemaking can achieve. Located in Henty’s rugged terrain, this vineyard celebrates 60 years of pioneering viticulture in a region once considered a risky choice for cool-climate vineyards. The 2024 vintage, crafted in part from the original vines planted in 1964, is a testament to the vineyard’s enduring legacy.

This exceptional wine dazzles with vibrant lemon zest, lime, and crisp pear flavours, complemented by the pronounced minerality that defines Drumborg’s cool, windswept terroir. Its lively acidity ensures a refreshing and clean finish, embodying the vineyard’s rich history and the precision of its winemaking.

Critics have taken notice. The Weekend Australia Drinks Issue named this Riesling among its Top 100 Wines of 2024, awarding it 95 points and recognising it as one of the top 20 premier whites of the year. The 2023 vintage also received a remarkable 97 points in Halliday Wine Companion, praised for its purity, precision, and balance. It’s a wine that exemplifies cool-climate mastery and Seppelt’s unwavering commitment to quality.

Great Western Riesling: The Terroir Whisperer

Distinctly Grampians in character, the Great Western Riesling showcases the exceptional terroir of this renowned wine region. Riesling is often described as a “terroir-expressive wine,” and the Grampians’ unique soils and climate imbue it with an unmistakable character.

The Great Western Riesling enchants with its heady aromas of citrus and lime blossom, while the palate reveals a vibrant mineral core intertwined with slate and lime. Its remarkable versatility makes it equally suited to fine dining or casual sipping, offering a true reflection of the Grampians region.

This wine has also earned accolades, including a Silver rating from Halliday Wine Companion. Its balance and elegance demonstrate why the Grampians is such a celebrated region for Riesling.

The Drumborg Vineyard Traminer: A Welcome Return

Adding to Drumborg Vineyard’s esteemed portfolio is the 2023 Traminer, reintroduced after decades of absence. This aromatic white offers a sensory journey through lychee, mango, pear, and musk, delivering a full-bodied yet refreshingly light experience.

Silkier and less acidic than a Riesling, the Traminer’s chalky minerality and floral elegance make it an enticing alternative. Its well-rounded structure pairs effortlessly with seafood, proving the old adage: what grows together, goes together.

Experience the Best of Riesling at Seppelt

At Seppelt, our dedication to Riesling is a celebration of the varietal’s versatility, depth, and connection to place. From the cool-climate mastery of Drumborg Vineyard to the terroir-driven refinement of Great Western, each wine offers a unique expression of Riesling’s potential.

And for those looking to explore something new, the Drumborg Vineyard Traminer provides an aromatic and distinctive departure, blending tradition with innovation.

Taste the legacy today—visit our cellar door or shop online to discover these exceptional wines.

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