Winemaker Malcolm Francis elaborates on the acidity, balance and elegance of the Rockburn 'Parkburn' Riesling.
2007 Parkburn RieslingGold Medal
Fruit from our Parkburn (Cromwell Basin) vineyard is used to make this classically styled off-dry Riesling. Nectarines and mandarins dominate the intensely fruity nose of this wine in its youth, and the palate is filled with the same concentration of citrus fruits with further hints of pineapple and peaches. The excellent balance of this wine is brought to completion by a long and cleansing finish. Best enjoyed with long lunches in the sunshine and delicate seafood dishes, this wine will continue to evolve over the next decade.
Reviews & Awards
Royal Easter Show Wine Awards 2009 – gold medal
Silver Medal 2009 New Zealand International Wine Awards
Fruit from our Parkburn (Cromwell Basin) vineyard is used to make this classically styled off-dry Riesling. Nectarines and mandarins dominate the intensely fruity nose of this wine in its youth, and the palate is filled with the same concentration of citrus fruits with further hints of pineapple and peaches. The excellent balance of this wine is brought to completion by a long and cleansing finish. Best enjoyed with long lunches in the sunshine and delicate seafood dishes, this wine will continue to evolve over the next decade.
The 2003 Rockburn Riesling exhibits classic cool climate aromas of lime and apricots leading into a palate of ripe yet refreshing stone fruit. This wine can be enjoyed immediately with lunch or as an aperitif, but will show its full potential after careful cellaring. Cellaring 0-7 years.
The inclement weather during flowering plus a cooler than normal summer resulted in fruit that lacked optimum physiological ripeness. The higher levels of acidity were challenging in the winery but lower crops also meant an increase in varietal intensity. The resulting wines have a taut structure, are pleasingly balanced and are the ideal accompaniment with food. The colour is straw with a lime taste. The aroma is pure orange peel and mandarin with some citrus overtones. The citrus theme continues into the mouth where the elegance of the wine is obvious. Refreshing acidity perfectly compliments the rich fruit flavours. An appealing "off dry" finish and long length.
The 2002 Riesling has a distinctly floral nose. The palate is full of citrus flavours with distinct hints of mandarin and orange peel. The finish is crisp and refreshing. This wine can be enjoyed immediately with lunch or as an aperitif, but will show its full potential after careful cellaring. Cellaring 0-7 years
