Sholto 2019 Riesling – Canberra District

Alternative wines made from mainstream grape varieties is the name of the game for Canberra District’s boutique Sholto Wines.

As Jake Carter, owner of Sholto Wines said to me, he wants to “show people just how versatile these varieties can be”.

So what exactly does Jake mean by alternative wines? Here’s what he told me..

“All of my white wines receive skin contact because I believe that is where a lot of the flavour and texture is and my Rieslings are given barrel fermentation to add a different element to the variety. And a lot of my reds go through Carbonic Maceration and extended skin contact to broaden the flavour profile.“

How cool is that! When Jake offered to send me a couple of samples, I definitely had to say yes. I was intrigued! Thank you Jake!

This 2019 Riesling was:

• Soaked on skins
• Barrel fermented & aged on lees
• An experiment on a whim that went very well!

And I have to agree with the last point, Mr Spittoon and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

We found it a pale yellow colour with a slight peach tinge in the glass. I loooved the smell of it, it made me think of juicy stonefruit, creamy vanilla and it has a nice refreshing citrus kick to it. While in the mouth it’s fruit forward and a bit perfume-like with a lick of sherbet and a delicate orange citrus finish. A unique, yet scrumptious style of Riesling. $30.

This wine was sent to me as a sample, I was under no obligation to post about it.

All opinions are based on my own taste buds. Wine is subjective & always evolving, so make sure you drink what you enjoy!