The Grampians has long been known to produce outstanding Riesling and Shiraz. In 2025, we managed to source a small parcel of Riesling from the Toomey vineyard at Armstrong, near Great Western.“

We set out to produce a wine that was refreshing and appealing, yet had some added complexity and mouthfeel; it was fermented in four components:

• two in Stainless Steel and inoculated with a yeast selected to preserve the lovely floral aromas of Riesling

• one component in Stainless, fermented using wild yeasts

• the last component fermented in an aged barrique

The result, a complex and serious Riesling in search of oysters or Garlic Prawns.

“Light straw with a very floral nose full of tutti fruity aromas, apple blossoms, orange leaning citrus, lemon thyme, mastic, a touch of banana ester, candied almond and nougat.
The palate is gently creamy, but racy and pierces with intense and fruity acidity that drives long. Stone fruits and pome sit in the background, giving way to a very mineral core that defines it. It steers quite savoury towards its finale and ends dry with apple skins and dried gingery spice.”

Marc Malouf @wineworthwritingabout and www.iheartwine.com.au Nov 2025