Lothian Vineyards Elgin Riesling 2022

Lothian Vineyards Elgin Riesling 2022

Winemaking

Picked early morning to preserve freshness, the grapes were whole-bunch pressed with gentle pneumatic pressing. Fermentation was slow and cool (12-14ºC) over three weeks using Alchemy II yeast, enhancing aromatic purity. Post-fermentation, the wine was racked off its gross lees and matured on fine lees for about four months with intermittent stirring, adding texture and complexity. The wine was then stabilised, filtered, and bottled.

Tasting Notes

This elegant wine displays a mid-lemon color with lifted aromas of spring flowers, gardenia, jasmine, and subtle notes of lychee and grapefruit peel. The palate is vibrant and dry, bursting with intense flavors of Valencia orange, lemon zest, and crisp apple flesh, underpinned by a chalky texture and bright, lively acidity. The finish delivers a refreshing, lingering touch of lychee, showcasing a perfect balance of fruit intensity and minerality. Crafted with meticulous hand-harvesting and gentle winemaking techniques, this wine beautifully reflects Elgin’s cool-climate finesse.

Analysis

Alcohol: 13.5 %
Residual Sugar: 2.3 g/l
Total Acidity: 7.1 g/l
pH: 2.3
Wine of Origin: Elgin

Special Note

The grapes were sourced from Table Mountain sandstone soils on an east-facing block. Meticulous hand harvesting and reductive juice handling preserved varietal freshness. Lees aging and battonage imparted a creamy mouthfeel and enhanced complexity while maintaining vibrancy—hallmarks of Lothian’s terroir-driven approach under the guidance of winemakers Gavin and Ewen Wilson.