Taka K Tussock Terrace Riesling 2023

Taka K 'Tussock Terrace' Riesling 2023 is an exciting wine from New Zealand, crafted by Taka Koizumi, a rising star in the wine world. Taka’s focus is on producing precise, terroir-driven wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the Central Otago region. Known for its cool climate, high-altitude vineyards, and glacial soils, Central Otago produces Rieslings with a vibrant freshness, minerality, and purity of fruit. The Tussock Terrace Riesling is a prime example, offering a balance of lively acidity and intense fruit flavours.

The 2023 vintage saw ideal conditions for ripening, allowing the grapes to develop crisp, bright acidity alongside concentrated fruit flavours. The wine was fermented in stainless steel to retain its fresh, pure character, highlighting the essence of the Riesling grape and the terroir.

Appearance: Pale straw with a light greenish tint, showcasing its youthful freshness and vibrancy.

Aroma: The nose is lively and aromatic, with bright notes of lime zest, green apple, and white peach. There are also delicate floral hints of jasmine and honeysuckle, alongside a refreshing minerality that reflects its cool-climate origins.

Taste: Light-bodied and crisp, with zesty acidity that brings a clean, refreshing structure. The palate reveals flavours of citrus, green apple, and juicy nectarine, balanced by a touch of white grapefruit and a subtle flinty mineral edge. The fruit is vibrant, yet the wine maintains a delicate elegance and focus.

Finish: The finish is long, crisp, and clean, with lingering citrus and green apple notes, leaving a refreshing, mouth-watering sensation that invites another sip.

Food Pairing: Taka K 'Tussock Terrace' Riesling 2023 pairs beautifully with fresh, light dishes. It’s an excellent match for sushi or sashimi, where the wine’s acidity and citrus notes elevate the delicate flavours of the fish. It also works wonderfully with seafood dishes like grilled prawns with lemon or ceviche, where the wine’s zesty profile complements the freshness of the seafood. For a vegetarian option, try pairing it with a zesty goat cheese salad or grilled asparagus with lemon, allowing the wine’s minerality and fruit to shine.