Forget the lower case “a&w” this is Castle Rock Estate’s icon Riesling, named in honour of the founders Angelo and Wendy Diletti. Hand harvested from best rows of fruit. Whole bunch pressed, only free run juice taken (first 450 litres per tonne). Light solids in the ferment for structure and complexity. Cool ferment in stainless steel, with 4 months maturation on lees.

Castle Rock Estate, a&w, Riesling, Porongurup, 2024

Pristine and near water pale in hue. Spiced and delicate, there’s kaffir/makrut lime leaf, matcha, gun flint, cool slate, pressed linen shirt, lemon blossom, waxy Meyer lemon and mineral water depth. So balanced and precise, impeccably clean lines that run like individual veins all knitting together with an effortless, ethereal nature. The phenolics are chef’s kiss, with just the right amount to provide body and grip. Acidity is a humming pulse that doesn’t shriek or squeal through the dry finish. The sum of all its parts making for an exceptional release.

RRP: $50
Alc: 11.8%
Rating: 96/100

Wine sample courtesy of Castle Rock Estate and Define Wine