The 2001 growing season started off very well with above average monthly temperatures, although sunshine hours were lower than usual. February 2002 was very cool and as a result berry ripening slowed down. However the season really came together in March, with huge amounts of sunshine and warmth. Ripening was even through the vineyards and the cool nights helped develop intense aromatic flavours. Huia experienced an excellent vintage with real fruit intensity and ripeness showing in the wines.
The grapes for the Huia Riesling came from the Pukenga Vineyard, which has deep silt lam soil. The canopy was well balanced through shoot thinning with good moderate exposure. The ripening grapes developed intense flavours. We hand harvested the grapes on 26th April at 22.0 Brix. The grapes were whole bunch pressed for the gentle extraction of flavour. The wine underwent a long, cool indigenous yeast ferment.
Ripe lime and lemon honey aromas are very apparent on the nose. The palate is rich with ripe citrus and honeysuckle flavours and a hint of ginger. Good weight, flavour and texture create the long elegant, slightly chalky, palate and persistent dry finish.
WINES - Tasting Notes
