100% Riesling, from Elgin, South Africa. Sustainable, non-interventionist.
In its opulent setting on the banks of the Palmiet River and a private lake in the Elgin Valley, Lothian Vineyards shines in a class of its own. Years of searching for the perfect location finally revealed Elgin’s cool-climate terroir as an elegant setting for growing grapes to produce exceptional Burgundian-style Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Rosé varietals. The Wilson family’s non-interventionist artisanal wine-making technique flows into the feel of Lothian House: a feat of modern architecture, designed with sensitivity towards the environment. Lothian estate is distinguished by nature, positioned in the Kogelberg Biosphere, which possesses 1654 plant species found nowhere else on earth.
The Wilson brothers farm their vineyards in accordance with South Africa’s voluntary Integrated Production of the Wine program, creating a sustainable ecosystem for plants and animals on their property. Due to Elgin’s proximity to the cold Atlantic Ocean and high altitude, the valley’s cool environment makes it the ideal home for varietals such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Rose, and Riesling and permits a predominantly non-interventionist approach to winemaking. Working in harmony with nature, the grapes are harvested by hand at the optimal moment for full flavors before being transported a short distance to the local winery.
This wine has a very pale gold color, with flashes of green. The nose is of medium intensity. It conjures up freshness with Cape Gooseberry, elderflower, white freesia flowers, and lemon zest. This is a bone-dry Riesling that becomes obvious upon its bright, tart entry. The elements discovered on the nose persist with notes of grapefruit, pine needles, and a complex minerality, providing a lemon-sorbet cleansing finish.
This Riesling should be served chilled, but not too cold in order to allow its wonderful aromas to develop. It pairs well with summer salads, fresh seafood, sushi, grilled fish, and roasted poultry. The exotic fruit aromas also work well with Asian-inspired cuisine & spicy dishes.
