Oak Valley Estate, Stone & Steel Riesling 2022

Oak Valley Estate, founded in 1898 in the cool-climate region of Elgin, South Africa, is celebrated for its dedication to producing elegant, terroir-driven wines. The Stone & Steel Riesling 2022 exemplifies this commitment, capturing the essence of its unique origin.

The estate cultivates two distinct Riesling vineyards, each contributing complementary characteristics to the wine. One vineyard imparts aromatics, concentration, and ripe fruit flavours at low sugar levels, while the other provides elegance, acidic tension, and depth. The winemaking process is reductive, with fermentation halted at the precise moment to achieve a harmonious balance between acidity and residual sugar.

Appearance: The wine presents a pale straw colour with a bright green hue, reflecting its freshness and vibrancy. Its clarity and brilliance indicate meticulous winemaking practices, while a subtle viscosity suggests a balanced structure.

Aroma: The nose is greeted with abundant aromas of watermelon, kiwi, apricot, and fresh ginger, creating a complex and inviting bouquet. As the wine opens, additional notes of white peach, litchi, and pear emerge, adding layers of depth to its aromatic profile.

Taste: On the palate, the wine offers flavours of yellow peach, green melon, tart grapefruit, and lime. The interplay between the cool-climate acidity and residual sugar results in a wine that is both refreshing and textured. A fine balance is achieved, with the natural sweetness complementing the vibrant acidity, leading to a complex and satisfying mouthfeel.

Finish: The finish is long and salivating, with lingering notes of citrus and a subtle minerality reminiscent of wet stone. A gentle hint of saline adds complexity, leaving a refreshing aftertaste that invites another sip.

Food Pairing: This Riesling pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It complements Asian cuisine, where the wine's acidity and slight sweetness balance the bold flavours and spices. For a seafood option, consider pairing it with salmon or tuna; the wine's freshness enhances the richness of the fish. Poultry dishes, such as roasted chicken or turkey, also harmonise well, highlighting the wine's versatility.

The Oak Valley Stone & Steel Riesling 2022 is a testament to the estate's dedication to crafting wines that authentically express their terroir, offering a sophisticated and memorable tasting experience.