Crawford River Noble Dry Riesling 2022

Crawford River, a family-owned vineyard established in the 1970s, is situated in the Henty region of Victoria, Australia. Renowned for its cool-climate wines, particularly Riesling, the estate has consistently produced wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area. The 'Noble Dry' Riesling was first introduced in 2011, resulting from a serendipitous late-season development of early-onset botrytis. This phenomenon led to a distinctive style that balances subtle sweetness with a dry finish, a tradition that continues with the 2022 vintage.

The 2022 'Noble Dry' Riesling is crafted from grapes affected by early-onset botrytis, harvested from a specific block within the vineyard. This early botrytis influence imparts unique flavour and aromatic characteristics without the extensive shrivelling associated with longer hang times. The wine was fermented primarily in stainless steel at cool temperatures to preserve freshness, with a small portion fermented in old French oak cigar barrels to enhance texture. Post-fermentation, the wine remained on lees for several months to develop complexity before bottling in September 2022.

Appearance: Pale straw with greenish hues, exhibiting brilliant clarity. The wine displays moderate viscosity, with slender, slow-forming legs that gracefully descend the glass. Its movement is fluid, reflecting a youthful vibrancy.

Aroma: Delicate spice, vanilla, jasmine, and roasted apricot jump out of the glass. Hints of citrus zest and honeysuckle add brightness, while subtle mineral and wet stone notes provide depth and complexity.

Taste: Vibrant and textured, with layers of ripe stone fruit, candied ginger, and a touch of honeyed sweetness. A fine acid line cuts through the richness, balancing the fruit and lending precision to the palate. Hints of lime, grapefruit, and white peach emerge, complemented by a chalky, mineral undertone that adds structure.

Finish: Exceptionally long, with a lingering interplay of citrus, spice, and floral notes. The texture counterbalances the hint of fruit sweetness, and the integrated acidity creates a wonderfully persistent and refreshing finish. Balanced and drinking beautifully now, though it has the potential to develop further complexity with age.

Food Pairing: This versatile Riesling pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its subtle sweetness and vibrant acidity complement spicy Asian cuisine, such as Thai green curry or Szechuan-style dishes. It also pairs well with fresh seafood, including oysters, scallops, and grilled prawns. For cheese lovers, consider soft, creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert to balance the wine's acidity.