RIESLING EDUCATOR GUIDE

AUSTRALIAN WINE DISCOVERED PREPARING FOR YOUR CLASS THE MATERIALS

VIDEOS As an educator, you have access to a suite of teaching resources and handouts, You will find complementary video including this educator guide: files for each program in the Wine Australia Assets Gallery. EDUCATOR GUIDE We recommend downloading these This guide gives you detailed topic videos to your computer before your information, as well as tips on how to best event. Look for the video icon for facilitate your class and tasting. It’s a guide recommended viewing times. only – you can tailor what you teach to Loop videos suit your audience and time allocation. These videos are designed to be To give you more flexibility, the following played in the background as you optional sections are flagged throughout welcome people into your class, this document: during a break, or during an event. There is no speaking, just background ADVANCED music. Music can be played aloud, NOTES or turned to mute. Loop videos should Optional teaching sections covering be played in ‘loop’ or ‘repeat’ mode, more complex material. which means they play continuously until you press stop. This is typically an easily-adjustable setting in your chosen media player. COMPLEMENTARY READING Feature videos These videos provide topical insights Optional stories that add from Australian winemakers, experts background and colour to the topic. and other. Feature videos should be played while your class is seated, with the sound turned on and clearly SUGGESTED audible. DISCUSSION POINTS To encourage interaction, we’ve included some optional discussion points you may like to raise with your class. Consider asking them to work in small groups to answer the question and then report back to the class. If you would like more movement in your classroom, ask them to write the group responses down on sticky notes (one idea per note) and attach them to a wall or whiteboard.

Riesling / Educator guide PRESENTATION SLIDES TASTING LIST The presentation follows the content in A editable tasting list template is available your guide and is designed for your in the Wine Australia Assets Gallery. We attendees, using visuals and photography strongly recommend filling this in to give to convey key points. We recommend to your class, so they have a record of projecting it on a big screen so it’s clearly what wines they tasted and where it can visible to all attendees. be purchased. There is a separate version of the CERTIFICATE presentation available with space for A downloadable participation certificate is student notes. You may like to print a also available in the Wine Australia Assets copy of this for each participant prior Gallery. You can add your logo and fill in the to the event. relevant course details before presenting to An editable PowerPoint version of the attendees. presentation is available on request. This guide and other complementary materials were COMPLEMENTARY HANDOUTS produced by Wine Australia in 2018. Information and statistics were correct at time of publication, but more You will find downloadable handouts in the up-to-date information may be available. Wine Australia Assets Gallery. These can be *Please note these documents, and any information, printed and distributed to your class. diagrams or images contained therein, must not be extracted, reproduced, or distributed except to the extent it has been expressly authorised under license from Wine Australia.

Riesling / Educator guide SUGGESTED TIMINGS

This program is designed to be taught in one to two hours. How long you spend on each topic – or whether you cover it at all – will depend on your attendees as well as time allocation. Below are two different examples of how you may wish to divide your time.

ONE-HOUR CLASS THREE-HOUR CLASS

Topic Time Time (mins) Topic (mins)

Welcome and introduction 5 mins Welcome and introduction 10 mins

The history of Australian The history of Australian 3 mins 15 mins Riesling Riesling

How it’s grown 3 mins How it’s grown 15 mins

How it’s made 5 mins How it’s made 15 mins

Where it’s grown 15 mins Where it’s grown 20 mins

Common styles 3 mins Common styles 10 mins

Characteristics and flavour 20 mins Break 15 mins profiles (including tasting)

Characteristics and flavour Food and wine pairings 3 mins 50 mins profiles (including tasting) Summary and class close 3 mins Food and wine pairing 10 mins

Riesling by numbers 10 mins

Summary and class close 10 mins

Riesling / Educator guide PREPARING F O R YOUR EVENT

3 WEEKS PRIOR Confirm event time and book venue Confirm equipment availability (glasses, projector, mats, etc.) Invite attendees (recommend setting an RSVP for 1 week prior to event).

1 WEEK PRIOR Reconfirm venue availability – check tables/chairs if being provided by venue Confirm number of attendees Review course content and make any required edits to presentation slides Select the wines (one bottle per 16 attendees). See suggested mix below Draft and print your tasting list in order of presentation (blank template provided).

1 DAY PRIOR Print attendee list Fill in and print relevant class handouts, including tasting sheets and participation certificates Collect and clean glassware Put wines in fridge to chill overnight, if required Double-check you have all equipment required to run the event.

3 HOURS PRIOR Check wines are at an appropriate temperature, with white and sparkling wines in the fridge Set up room Set up and test projector/laptop/iPad Ensure the venue manager is aware of the start time and location for the event and can direct attendees if necessary.

30 MINUTES PRIOR Gather the wines, using ice buckets with a 50:50 mix of ice and water for white and sparkling wines.

Riesling / Educator guide YOU WILL NEED

SUGGESTED WINES TO TASTE PER ATTENDEE 1 glass for each wine you’ll – Grosset ‘Polish Hill’ Riesling be tasting – KT ‘Peglidis Vineyard’ Watervale Riesling – Pikes ‘Traditionale’ Riesling 600mL bottle of water Eden Valley  1 spittoon (plastic cups are – Riesling suitable) – Rieslingfreak No. 8 Schatskammer Riesling Palate cleansers, such as (medium sweet) water crackers – Smallfry Riesling – Sons of Eden ‘Freya’ Riesling Tasting mats, wine list and other relevant handouts Great Southern – Byron & Harold ‘The Partners’ Riesling Pen. – Frankland Estate ‘Isolation Ridge’ Riesling – Plantagenet Riesling Canberra District – Riesling TO SET UP YOUR TRAINING – Helm Riesling ROOM – Ravensworth Riesling Tables and chairs to seat all Victoria participants – Crawford River ‘Young Vines’ Riesling – Jasper Hill ‘Georgia’s Paddock’ Riesling A table (or barrel) at the front for the wines – Mac Forbes ‘RS’ Riesling (off-dry) (Strathbogie Ranges) Ice and ice buckets to Tasmania hold wines – Glaetzer-Dixon Überblanc Riesling  Corkscrew – Goaty Hill Riesling – Josef Chromy Delikat SGR Riesling (medium Wiping cloth or paper towel sweet style) for spills Other recommended  Projector and screen/wall – Crawford River Reserve Riesling  Some classes may require – Grosset Alea Riesling (off-dry) microphone and speakers. – Pewsey Vale ‘The Contours’ Riesling (aged example)

Tip: Note: Arrange tables and chairs to – Allow 1 bottle per 16 participants. encourage discussion. U-shaped room with a round table format is ideal. – Have a second bottle on hand for any wines sealed with cork to allow for cork taint issues. – You can pre-pour red wine in advance if time is tight – wine should be served at 15°C (60°F). Avoid pre-pouring white or sparkling wine so it can be served chilled.

Riesling / Educator guide DISCOVERED EDUCATION PROGRAM

The comprehensive, free education For enquiries, email program providing information, tools and [email protected] resources to discover Australian wine.

To access course presentation, videos and tasting tools, as well as other programs, visit Wine Australia supports the www.australianwinediscovered.com responsible service of alcohol. PROGRAM INFORMATION AND PRESENTATION SLIDES RIESLING

AUSTRALIAN WINE DISCOVERED Jeffrey Grosset, , Clare Valley Clare Wines, Grosset Grosset, Jeffrey

Australia’s unique climate and landscape have fostered a fiercely independent wine scene, home to a vibrant community of growers, winemakers, viticulturists, and vignerons. With more than 100 grape varieties grown across 65 distinct wine regions, we have the freedom to make exceptional wine, and to do it our own way. We’re not beholden by tradition, but continue to push the boundaries in the pursuit of the most diverse, thrilling wines in the world. That’s just our way.

Riesling / Educator guide One of Australia’s premier white grape varieties, Riesling is a delicate, expressive and versatile variety that benefits from a minimalist winemaking approach. Australia is home to some of the world’s oldest Riesling vines and a leading global producer.

AUSTRALIAN RIESLING MINIMAL INTERVENTION MASTERY

VIDEO AUSTRALIAN RIESLING: Now is a great time to play the Riesling MINIMAL-INTERVENTION MASTERY loop video in the background, as you Crisp, citrusy Riesling is a delicate beauty, welcome people into your class. shining most brightly when handled with a light touch. It has a long history in Australia, but like Riesling from around the world, its journey has had its highs and lows. FIRST TASTE Australian stalwart: Riesling was one of the original varieties THIS MAY BE A planted, and from humble beginnings as a GOOD OPPORTUNITY workhorse grape it has grown into one of our most renowned varieties – despite being TO GIVE EVERYONE A misunderstood at times. Some of Australia’s TASTE OF A CLASSIC most admired winemakers are known for making great Riesling. AUSTRALIAN RIESLING. Leading global producer: THE FULL TASTING Australia is one of the world’s top Riesling producers with production figures similar COMES LATER IN THE to the United States and higher than PROGRAM. France (Germany takes the top spot). South Australia’s Clare and Eden Valleys are famous for producing some of the best examples in the world.

Riesling / Educator guide DID YOU KNOW Pure expression: Riesling is a delicate, expressive and It’s rare to find a Riesling produced versatile variety that benefits from a in Australia that’s not bottled under minimalist winemaking approach. Australian . winemakers are exploring both new and ancient techniques that capture the purity of Riesling’s inherent character while producing multifaceted wines. Complexity over time: This noble variety produces some of Australia’s most age-worthy white wines, easily cellared for decades thanks to their high acidity and bright fruit characters. Bittersweet reputation: Riesling has battled misconceptions that it’s a sweet wine, requiring it to be finer in quality and lower in price than its peers in order to overcome this perception. Today, however, its reputation is on the rise as people discover – or rediscover – the aromatic charms of this exciting variety.

Riesling / Educator guide TO DAY

- The history of Australian Riesling - How it’s grown WE’LL - How it’s made - Where it’s grown - Common styles - Characteristics and flavour profiles COVER… - Riesling by numbers

Riesling / Educator guide THE HISTORY OF AUSTRALIAN RIESLING Mid- 1800s Riesling is highly regarded and in demand, becoming synonymous with ‘dry white wine’.

1800s 1930s First recorded as being imported by William Macarthur New technology makes in 1837. Riesling is embraced its way into the Australian by German, Polish and Czech wine community. settlers and soon finds a home Refrigeration is used to in the Clare Valley, Eden Valley, cool white wine, helping to Tasmania, Victoria, Mudgee preserve Riesling’s delicate and Western Australia. aromatics.

1960s 1990s Riesling becomes ’s surge in Australia’s leading variety popularity coincides in the white wine boom with Riesling’s decline of the late 1960s and from being Australia’s 1970s, despite a common most popular white misconception that it’s wine. always sweet.

1970S 1950s & 1980S TO DAY Australian Riesling is further The mislabelling of Riesling Riesling is one of Australia's revolutionised when Colin wines is corrected and Riesling most important grape Gramp uses cold-pressure shakes off its image as a sweet varieties – and its reputation fermentation to prevent the wine. Many famous Australian is once again soaring. escape of carbon dioxide wine companies include dry and control fermentation Riesling in their ranges. temperatures.

Riesling / Educator guide THE HISTORY OF AUSTRALIAN RIESLING REVOLUTION RIESLING 1930s IN THE BEGINNING In the early days of Australia’s commercial Early 1800s wine endeavours, the demand for fresh, Riesling has a long history in Australia, clean wines over sweeter fortified wines potentially arriving with the James Busby called for a new approach to winemaking. collection in 1833. It’s officially first recorded New technology began making its way into as being imported into Australia in 1837 the Australian wine community in the early by William Macarthur, with plantings at 1930s when key figures like Alfred Basedow Camden. and Rudi Kronberger pioneered the use of refrigeration to control fermentation Riesling soon found a home in areas of temperatures in Australia – something that Australia that would become known for is now commonplace. producing classic wines: Clare Valley, Eden Valley, Tasmania, parts of Victoria including 1950s Henty and the Grampians, Mudgee and the Australian Riesling was further revolutionised Great Southern region. It was embraced in the 1950s, when Colin Gramp pioneered by settlers from Silesia (a historical region the use of cold-pressure fermentation to in Central Europe divided by the current prevent the escape of carbon dioxide and boundaries of Poland, Germany and the control fermentation temperatures. Czech Republic) who were among the first Gramp’s 1953 Riesling, which was made to start making Riesling in Barossa. using this innovative method, was highly In 1837 at the age of 18, Johann Gramp awarded and kickstarted the popularity of left Germany and headed for the new the clean, clear style with a succession of British colony of South Australia. He spent award-winning vintages. time on Kangaroo Island and in Adelaide 1960s before moving to the Barossa Valley in In 1961 after years of neglect, the then-owner 1840. Johann settled on the bank of Jacob’s of Pewsey Vale, Geoff Angas Parsons, visited Creek, planting a small vineyard in 1847 after his friend Wyndham Hill-Smith of recognising that the Barossa Valley was and proposed they restore the vineyard perfectly suited to vines. entirely to Riesling. Vines were replanted on Johann sent word back to Germany for the contoured Eden Valley slopes. cuttings of Riesling to be sent to the At a similar time, legendary Riesling emerging wine region. The variety would winemaker John Vickery created a crisp, soon become a classic Australian variety tangy style of Eden Valley Riesling under the and a signature wine for Jacob’s Creek. Leo Buring Label (bottled as ‘Rhine Riesling’). Mid-1800s Given sweet were the trend at the By 1850, Eden Valley pioneer Joseph Gilbert time, this drier style was reflective of the had planted Riesling in an area of the shift to come. Barossa Ranges that would become known A BITTER-SWEET REPUTATION as Pewsey Valley, one of Australia’s first high- altitude, cool-climate vineyards. 1970s and 1980s The public’s perception – or misconception – Riesling was highly regarded and in demand, of Riesling being sweet affected its progress becoming synonymous with ‘dry white wine’. all over the world. In the 60s, 70s and 80s many sweeter Australian white wines containing various grape varieties were mislabelled as Riesling due to the variety’s

Riesling / Educator guide popularity. Despite potential confusion, SUGGESTED Riesling became Australia’s leading variety DISCUSSION POINTS in the white wine boom of the late 1960s – How have broader wine- and 1970s. consumption trends over the past By the early 1990s, thanks to concerted decades influenced Riesling and its efforts from key producers across Australia, popularity? Riesling began to shake off its image as – Why were major technological a sweet wine. Many large Australian wine advances such as refrigeration companies included dry Riesling in their and cold-pressure fermentation ranges – Seaview, Hardys, Lindeman’s more significant in the evolution and Seppelt to name a few joining more of Riesling than in other varieties? boutique producers like Grosset and Crawford River. Until the Chardonnay boom struck in the 1980s, Riesling was Australia’s most widely planted white wine grape. Chardonnay’s surge in popularity coincided with, or likely played a part in causing, Riesling’s decline from its top spot as Australia’s most popular white wine. THE RIESLING REVIVAL Today Despite being somewhat misunderstood at times, today Riesling is one of the country’s most important grape varieties – and its reputation is on the rise. The variety thrives in cooler climates such as Eden Valley, Tasmania and Great Southern, as well as the warmer climate of Clare Valley – which benefits from elevation and diurnal temperature variation – to produce world- class examples of this cellar-worthy, food- friendly wine.

Riesling / Educator guide VITICULTURE HOW RIESLING IS GROWN

Riesling is highly expressive of grape and terroir, showcasing the grapegrower’s skill. – Grows best in climates with cool nights and a long ripening season – Thrives in a wide variety of soil types – Small and compact grape clusters susceptible to disease – Produces better quality wine when yields are kept low

VITICULTURE: HOW RIESLING ripening while cool nights maintain zesty IS GROWN acidity and fragrant aromatics. It generally At its best, Riesling is a highly expressive prefers low fertility soils, keeping vine grape, notable for its ability to reflect the vigour and yield down. place in which it was grown and bringing The vine the grapegrower’s skill to the fore. Riesling is a low to moderate vigour variety, Site selection but it is quite fruitful and can develop long, Riesling typically grows well in cooler trailing shoots when growth is vigorous. climates with cool nights and a long ripening The grape clusters are generally small season. Some of Australia’s top Riesling and compact, ranging from cylindrical to regions are influenced by the cooling effects globular in shape. of either ocean breezes or elevation. This Canopies and trellises produces wine with high acid levels, delicate Open, divided trellising systems are often aromatics and greater concentration of used to help prevent bunch rot within the flavours. tightly clustered grapes, with common Riesling also thrives in some of Australia’s trellis types including single wire, vertical warmer regions, including as Clare and shoot position (VSP) and the Scott Henry Eden Valleys. Although classified as warm- trellis system. climate regions, significant variations in In warmer climates, canopy architecture altitude create multiple microclimates techniques may be used to provide sufficient and mesoclimates and Riesling excels on canopy shade and protect bunches from sites where clear, sunny days enable slow direct sunlight. This may involve modifying

Riesling / Educator guide the trellis and training system to provide SUGGESTED more shade (dappled as opposed to direct DISCUSSION POINTS sunlight), or orientating vine rows to protect – How might flavour and texture bunches from direct sunlight. vary between cool-climate and Pruning techniques warmer-climate Australian With its tight grape clusters, Riesling is Riesling? susceptible to bunch rot, and particularly – Why is a long ripening season infection by Botrytis cinerea, a type important for Riesling? of fungus. For specific regions where a benevolent form of Botrytis cinerea infection develops regularly, ‘noble rot’ dessert wine styles can be made. For other regions, growers use canopy management techniques such as leaf removal and sprays to prevent the formation of bunch rot and grey rot. Hand pruning is often used over mechanical methods. Harvest In cooler climates, Riesling ripens relatively late, and in Australia’s cool-climate regions it is often one of the last of the white varieties to be harvested – generally February to April, depending on weather conditions. In the production of off-dry or sweet late- harvest styles, the retention of acidity through the very late stages of ripening allows the grapes to become concentrated by dehydration and still retain sufficient acidity to balance the high residual sugar. Extra care is taken during harvest to avoid damaging the grapes and releasing phenols that interrupt the purity of the juice and finished wine. Yields Vine yield can vary depending on region, site and viticulture practices, but generally Riesling has a lower yield than some other white wine grapes such as Chardonnay. It can overcrop when grown in deep, fertile soils but produces a better quality wine when yields are kept low.

Riesling / Educator guide HOW WHITE WINE IS MADE

1. HARVEST 2. DESTEMMING 3. PRESSING & CRUSHING

6. BLENDING 5. STABILISATION 4. FERMENTATION

7. MATURATION 8. FINING & FILTERING 9. BOTTLING

Riesling / Educator guide WINEMAKING TECHNIQUES INFLUENCING RIESLING

EXTENDED MACERATION TIMES

WHOLEBUNCH COLD EXTENDED COLD STERILE EARLY PRESSING FERMENTATION SKIN CONTACT STABILISATION FILTRATION BOTTLING

HOW WHITE WINE IS MADE and sweeter versions with considerable residual sugar are becoming more common, VIDEO and are usually labelled with residual sugar levels. Now is an appropriate time to play the feature video, How white wine is Whole-bunch pressing: made. While it’s not specific to Riesling, Entire grape bunches are pressed, rather it provides background context on the than crushed, to extract juice, rather typical production process. than de-stemming before the crush. This minimises the extraction of tannins or other phenolics from the grape skins and seeds, and the presence of stalks in the press WINEMAKING: makes for effective drainage and promotes TECHNIQUES INFLUENCING RIESLING clarity of juice. The juice is often cooled after The best Australian Rieslings are about pressing. The result is a more refined, less freshness, vibrancy and purity of fruit stringent wine. expression. The job of the winemaker is to preserve these qualities, typically DID YOU KNOW using a relatively straightforward, Juice that’s naturally released from the minimal-intervention approach. grape and drains freely from the press The majority of Australian Riesling today is is called free-run juice. It’s considered made in a very dry style, but winemakers to be better quality than pressed juice. are starting to experiment with texture influenced by lees or skin contact. Off-dry

Riesling / Educator guide ADVANCED Cold fermentation: NOTES Cool, temperature-controlled fermentation THE SCREW CAP REVOLUTION in stainless steel is common, preventing oxidation and keeping the juice in its It was the winemakers of the Clare freshest state. Riesling is prevented from Valley, keen to retain the pristine freshness and vitality of their Riesling, undergoing malolactic fermentation – this who drove the screw cap revolution in preserves its acidic characteristic and Australia. The first trials were instigated produces a bright, vibrant quality without in the 1970s by Yalumba with Pewsey any buttery aromas. Vale Riesling and Orlando, who bottled Extended skin contact: a batch of John Vickery’s Richmond Some winemakers are experimenting with Grove Riesling under screw cap – natural techniques such as extended skin a bold move at a time when consumers contact to build texture and weight, and were convinced that screw caps create interesting styles. The skins are left in meant ‘cheap’. contact with the juice, rather than pressing Encouraged by the positive results, the juice off the grapes before fermentation, 13 Clare Valley winemakers banded imparting phenolics and sometimes, together in 2000 to champion the depending on the style desired, an orange French Stelvin screw cap closure hue to the wine. for their premium Rieslings. The Cold stabilisation: consistency, freshness and vitality of the screw cap-sealed wines appealed To help prevent crystallisation of the acid to consumers, and screw caps soon (known as ‘wine diamonds’) in the bottle, became part of everyday Australian Riesling may be cold-stabilised by cooling wine. it to just above freezing point until the majority of the tartaric acid crystallises and The best Australian Rieslings can is separated from the wine. be cellared for decades, with their bright, acidic, floral fruit mellowing Sterile filtration: into richer nutty, toasty characters. In Riesling is often sterile-filtered to remove most Australian wines and especially remaining yeasts and bacteria. Riesling, a screw cap is used to help Early bottling: prevent oxidation, faults and cork taint Most Rieslings are bottled early, usually (TCA). within three to four months of vintage, to The Australian-specified screw cap capture the vibrant fruit character and design adopted back in 2000 set the fresh, mineral flavours. Nearly all Australian standard that virtually all screw caps Riesling is bottled under screw cap, further follow today, and in 2016, 98% of white preserving the purity of the wine. wines in Australia and New Zealand were sealed with screw caps. Today it is rare to find an Australian Riesling DID YOU KNOW bottled under cork. While the use of new oak has traditionally been uncommon in Riesling production, a small number of winemakers are using large-format old oak barrels during fermentation or maturation to build texture and complexity in dry and off-dry styles.

Riesling / Educator guide SUGGESTED DISCUSSION POINTS – Why are malolactic fermentation and new oak almost never used in the production of Riesling? – Discuss the characteristics of skin-contact Riesling. How does it differ from Riesling produced off the skins? – Discuss the pros and cons of screw cap versus cork closures.

Riesling / Educator guide AUSTRALIAN RIESLING REGIONS

NORTHERN TERRITORY

QUEENSLAND

WESTERN AUSTRALIA SOUTH AUSTRALIA

NEW SOUTH WALES Ed V a   Stuart Hwy VICTORIA C   Barrier Hwy G  a t V a   S  t  r n 0 500 T  n i a TASMANIA Kilometres

Eyre Hwy SOUTH AUSTRALIA C   Flinders Hwy V a   Lincoln Hwy

Sturt Hwy

ADELAIDE

Ouyen Hwy

Dukes Hwy

Riddoch Hwy

Princes Hwy Riesling / Educator guide AUSTRALIAN RIESLING REGIONS Grown throughout Australia, the best Rieslings are produced in cooler climates that benefit from ocean breezes or elevation. Riesling’s most prominent wine regions, which we’ll explore here, are: – Clare Valley – Eden Valley – Tasmania – Great Southern Other notable regions include: – Henty, Victoria – The Grampians, Victoria – Canberra District, Australian Capital Territory

Riesling / Educator guide - Five distinct areas - Picturesque and CLARE geographically blessed - Tradition of winemaking innovation VALLEY - World-famous Riesling region

FUN FACT Clare Valley has its very own , which runs along a disused railway line.

CLARE VALLEY twisting through vineyards and around old stone houses. The geographical advantages VIDEO that make it such a lucrative farming and agricultural region also provide the basis for Now is an appropriate time to play the fine wine production. feature video, Clare Valley Riesling. Tradition of innovation: Clare Valley is an influential wine region, thanks to its cornerstone of classic, The Clare Valley consists of five distinct traditional producers, coupled with a history areas: Auburn, Watervale, Sevenhill, Polish of experimentation and a new generation of Hill River and Clare. The styles produced winemakers keen to throw out the rule book. in each region reflect the influence of climate, soil and geography. Although Famed Riesling region: Clare Valley accounts for only around 3% of Some of Australia’s finest Riesling is grown Australian plantings, it has a well-deserved in Clare Valley, with the region’s winemakers reputation for premium wines of quality and setting the benchmark for classic Riesling consistency, producing both delicate whites flavours and internationally acclaimed, and full-bodied reds. age-worthy wines. Geographically blessed: Clare Valley is one of Australia’s most picturesque wine regions, with undulating hills, meandering streams and gum trees

Riesling / Educator guide CRUSH RIESLING GRAPE TYPE RIESLING OF = % % T O  L 70.5 % % OF WHITE 28 72 25 C   WINE CRUSH W  T E RED

CLARE VALLEY SNAPSHOT

CLIMATE GROWING ALTITUDE CONTINENTAL SEASON RAINFALL L  – MEAN JANUARY  AT DEGR ME UM TEMP ATU  Y S 250MM 300 500M/ WARM HIGH /9.8IN 984 1,640FT 21.9°C/71.4°F 1,770 L 

*Source: Wine Australia, 2017

FUN FACT Latitude Grape vines favour ‘temperate’ climates, CLARE VALLEY HAS ITS VERY OWN which mostly fall within distinct latitudes of RIESLING TRAIL, WHICH RUNS 30° and 50° from the equator. At 33° 50’S, ALONG A DISUSED RAILWAY LINE. Clare Valley sits just within this bracket. POPULAR FOR WALKING, CYCLING Altitude Clare Valley’s altitude is quite varied at 300 AND PICNICKING, IT FOLLOWS THE metres to 500 metres (984 to 1,640 feet), CONTOURS AND CURVES OF THE meaning that although it is classified as OLD TRAIN LINE FROM AUBURN a warm region, some higher-altitude sites THROUGH THE TOWNSHIP OF have cooler climates. The region’s altitude is an important factor. CLARE AND ABOUT 10 KILOMETRES Climate (6.2 MILES) NORTH TO BARINIA. The region enjoys a warm, moderate continental climate, with warm to hot CLARE VALLEY SNAPSHOT summer days moderated by cooling Crush afternoon and night breezes. Riesling accounts for approximately 25% – Temperature data can be misleading due of Clare Valley’s total crush but 70.5% of to the large diurnal variation (variation the region’s white wine crush. Other between a high temperature and a low prominent varieties include Cabernet temperature during the same day). Sauvignon and Shiraz.

Riesling / Educator guide – Drops of temperature from as high as 40 (104°F) during the day to 1°C (33.8°F) at night are common during the main ripening months, slowing ripening and adding complexity – especially important for aromatic vines such as Riesling. – The undulating geography means sites receive protection from or exposure to cool breezes. Growing season rainfall Calculated from October to April in Australia, growing season rainfall is a good indication of how much water is available to the vine. Rainfall in the Clare Valley arrives in winter, kickstarting the soil for the dry growing season ahead. Mean January temperature Mean January temperature refers to the mean temperature of the warmest month. Clare Valley features a warm to hot summer, but cooling afternoon breezes play a major role in slowing down the ripening process. Heat degree days Heat degree days (HDD) is an indicator of the warmth of a climate during the vine-growing period.

Riesling / Educator guide Clare Valley has 11 recognised soil types, ranging from classic terra rossa red topsoil over limestone Watervale to broken slate Polish Hill River. Vineyards SOIL in the northern Clare Valley are grown in deep, fertile alluvial soils, while vineyards in the west are grown in sandy loam dotted with fragments of quartz.

SOIL NOTABLE CLARE VALLEY Clare Valley has 11 recognised soil types, PRODUCERS most of which hold enough water to sustain The slate and limestone soils of Clare Valley, vines, though in some areas minimal combined with its cool nights, produce irrigation is needed in the hottest months. a very distinctive style of Riesling that is Dry-grown Clare Valley grapes deliver a typically medium-bodied with fruit richness great intensity of flavour and colour. Pockets and a long lingering acid sensation. They of the Clare Valley, such as Watervale, hold display spice and fresh citrus aromas. Many classic terra rossa topsoil over limestone, can be aged for decades. similar to that found in South Australia’s Notable producers include: famed Coonawarra. Polish Hill River vines – Grosset Wines. are planted in grey loam soil over sandstone – Jim Barry Wines. interspersed with broken slate. Vineyards – Mount Horrocks Wines. in the northern Clare Valley are grown in – Petaluma. deep, fertile alluvial soils, while areas in the west are planted to sandy loam dotted with – Pikes. fragments of quartz. – Tim Adams Wines. – Vickery. – Wines by KT.

Riesling / Educator guide Stuart Hwy Barrier Hwy

Eyre Hwy SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Flinders Hwy

Lincoln Hwy

Sturt Hwy BAROSSA VALLEY ED ADELAIDE V a  

Ouyen Hwy

Dukes Hwy

Riddoch Hwy

Princes Hwy

Riesling / Educator guide - Cool-climate neighbour of Barossa Valley EDEN - Strong winemaking tradition - Renowned for producing VALLEY premium wines

FUN FACT Eden Valley was named by the surveyors of the area after they found the word Eden carved into a tree.

EDEN VALLEY Premium wines: Known as the ‘Garden of Grapes and Gums’, As well as Riesling, Eden Valley notably the elevated, cooler-climate region of Eden produces Chardonnay, Valley is a small pocket of bustling vineyards and Shiraz. Its wines are distinctive in their surrounded by rolling hills and ancient red character, displaying impressive aromatics, gum trees. elegance, complexity and finesse. Neighbour to Barossa Valley: Eden Valley is one of two regions in South Australia’s Barossa Zone, the other being the famous Barossa Valley. It is the smaller of the two, but a prominent region renowned for its top-quality wines. Strong winemaking tradition: Eden Valley is home to some of the world’s oldest Shiraz and Riesling vineyards dating back to 1847. Traditional grape growing continues with a focus on sustainability and authenticity, with fifth and sixth generations of the original settlers continuing to apply their craft.

Riesling / Educator guide CRUSH GRAPE TYPE RIESLING OF % % % T O  L 26 C   50.5 49.5 W  T E RED

EDEN VALLEY SNAPSHOT

CLIMATE GROWING ALTITUDE CONTINENTAL SEASON RAINFALL L  – MEAN JANUARY  AT DEGR ME UM TEMP ATU  Y S 280MM 380 550M/ MODERATE MEDIUM /11IN 1,247 1,804FT 19.4°C/67°F 1,390 L 

*Source: Wine Australia, 2017

EDEN VALLEY SNAPSHOT – Multiple mesoclimates due to varying Crush altitudes, aspects and slopes. Riesling accounts for approximately 26% of – Typified by warm days and very cool Eden Valley’s total crush, and is the second nights, with long periods of sunshine most crushed variety after Shiraz. during the growing season. Latitude Growing season rainfall 34° 35’S Growing season rainfall in the Eden Valley is Altitude quite low, with more of its rainfall occurring in winter. Elevation is an important factor in determining mesoclimate in this hilly region. Mean January temperature At an altitude of around 500 metres (1,640 The final stages of grape ripening and feet), the Pewsey Vale, Heggies and High harvesting in Eden Valley take place in much Eden vineyards at the southern end of the cooler conditions than in the other regions Eden Valley are considerably cooler than the of South Australia. more northerly vineyards at an elevation of 380 to 400 metres (1,247 to 1,312 feet) around Keyneton. Climate – Cool climate with growing season temperatures significantly lower than those of the Barossa Valley.

Riesling / Educator guide Varied soil types ranging from grey to brown in colour, and from loamy sand to clay loams. Soils are generally well-suited to dry land viticulture, but there are patches of weaker sandy soils on the slopes, SOIL which have reduced water-holding capacity.

SOIL Notable producers include: The varied terrain of Eden Valley means – Chaffey Bros Wine Co. there are a number of soil types. The most – Dandelion Vineyards. common range from grey to brown in colour, – Henschke. and from loamy, well-drained sand to clay loams. Ironstone gravels, quartz gravels and – Peter Lehmann. rock fragments are present in the surface – Pewsey Vale. and subsurface. These are well-suited to dry – Smallfry Wines. land viticulture, but there are also patches of – Sons of Eden. weaker sandy soils on the slopes, underlain – Tim Smith. by weathered mica schists, which have reduced water-holding capacity. Notable Eden Valley producers Eden Valley Rieslings typically display a signature slate, mineral character, strong lime juice and fragrant floral aromas and great intensity of flavour on the palate. As the wines age, toasty nuances appear on the nose and palate. Good Eden Valley Riesling will take 10 years or more to reach its peak.

Riesling / Educator guide Murchison Hwy Hwy

Tasman LAUNCESTON

Midland Hwy

Esk Main Rd

Zeehan Hwy

Highland

Lyell Hwy

Lakes TASMANIA Rd

HOBART

Riesling / Educator guide TASMANIA

- Fine cool-climate region - Innovative wine community - Gourmet paradise

TASMANIA Cool-climate region: Tasmania is one of Australia’s finest cool- climate wine-producing regions, well known for producing award-winning sparkling wine, , Chardonnay and Riesling. With a cool climate that has long, sunny and dry autumns, Tasmania boasts ideal growing conditions for developing naturally elegant, intensely flavoured and aromatic wines. Innovative wine community: Third-generation family wineries sit alongside corporate outposts and young winemakers pushing the boundaries, creating a diverse winemaking scene. Gourmet paradise: Tasmania is a picturesque gourmet paradise. It has the perfect climate for producing cheeses, premium beef, specialty honey, mushrooms and some of Australia’s leading boutique beers and whiskies.

Riesling / Educator guide CRUSH GRAPE TYPE RIESLING OF % % % T O  L 5.6 C   52 48 W  T E RED

TASMANIASNAPSHOT

CLIMATE GROWING ALTITUDE MARITIME SEASON RAINFALL MEAN JANUARY  AT DEGR L  TEMP ATU  Y S 350MM 0 80M/ COOL LOW 13.7IN 0 262FT 16.8°C/62.2°F 1,013 ME UM

*Source: Wine Australia, 2017

TASMANIA SNAPSHOT Mean January temperature Crush Tasmania’s mean January temperature Riesling accounts for approximately 5.6% falls below the coolest range on the graph, of Tasmania’s total crush. making it Australia’s coolest winemaking region. Latitude 41° 07’S – North Tasmania 42° 45’S – South Tasmania Altitude Tasmania’s altitude is low, at 0 metres to 80 metres (0 to 262ft). Climate – Australia’s coolest-climate region. – High humidity, spring frosts. – Similar climate to Champagne and parts of the Rhine Valley. Growing season rainfall Tasmania receives 40% of its annual rainfall during the growing season.

Riesling / Educator guide On the lower slopes, the vineyard soils feature ancient sandstones, mudstones, river sediments and igneous rock of volcanic origin. Sandstone and schist appear SOIL in Derwent Valley. Peaty alluvial and sandy low humus soil appear in Coal River Valley. Pipers River boasts deep, free-draining, friable soils, while Tamar Valley is gravelly basalt on a clay and limestone base.

Notable Tasmanian producers Tasmania’s inherent cool climate right across the island makes it ideal for the production of high-quality dry Riesling. Typical Tasmanian style has great length, with citrus and mineral characters and high levels of natural acidity. Notable producers include: – Bay of Fires. – Goaty Hill. – Josef Chromy. – Pooley Wines. – Tamar Ridge. – Waterton Vineyards.

Riesling / Educator guide Great Northern Hwy Northern Great

Brand Hwy

Great Eastern Hwy

PERTH WESTERN Great Southern Hwy AUSTRALIA

Albany Hwy

Bussell Hwy Margaret R G TA S T R N

South Western Hwy

Hwy

Coast South

Riesling / Educator guide GREAT SOUTHERN

- Vast wine region - One of Australia’s most rugged and remote - Produces established and emerging styles Photo © Swinney Vineyards, Frankland River, WA River, Frankland Vineyards, © Swinney Photo

GREAT SOUTHERN Established and emerging styles: The vast Great Southern region is Western The region is best known for its Riesling and Australia’s largest wine region, boasting five Cabernet Sauvignon but also produces distinctive sub-regions: Porongurup, Mount quality Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz, Barker, Albany, Denmark and Frankland as well as emerging varieties such as River. The three northern regions, Frankland Tempranillo. River, Mount Barker and Porongurup, have built particularly strong reputations for their Riesling. A vast expanse: The Great Southern region stretches 200 kilometres (124 miles) from east to west and 100 kilometres (62 miles) from north to south, and provides an ideal environment for creating distinctive regional wines. Rugged and remote: Located in the south-west corner of Australia, the windswept Great Southern is one of Australia’s most remote and visually striking wine regions. The nearest major city is Perth, a five-hour drive.

Riesling / Educator guide CRUSH GRAPE TYPE

RIESLING OF % % % T O  L 50.5 49.5 9.5 C   W  T E RED

GREAT SOUTHERN SNAPSHOT

CLIMATE MOUNT BARKER, PORONGURUP ALTITUDE AND FRANKLAND RIVER GROWING SEASON CONTINENTAL RAINFALL ALBANY AND DENMARK L  MARITIME 303MM 75M MEAN JANUARY TEMP ATU  AT DEGR  YS 11.9IN /246FT MODERATE MEDIUM L  – 19°C/66°F 1,441 1,488 ME UM

*Source: Wine Australia, 2017

GREAT SOUTHERN SNAPSHOT Growing season rainfall Crush The inland sub-regions of Great Southern Riesling accounts for approximately 9.5% receive moderate rainfall but less than the of Great Southern’s total crush. regions nearer the ocean. Latitude Mean January temperature 35° 02’S. Great Southern sits at the warmer This varies slightly across the Great end of the temperate latitude range, but Southern Region, though the sub-regions receives cooling ocean breezes. of Mount Barker, Porongurup and Frankland River see identical or very similar January Climate temperatures. – Climate varies greatly across sub-regions, creating multiple microclimates and mesoclimates. – The inland, Riesling-producing regions of Mount Barker, Porongurup and Frankland River have a continental climate. – Less rainfall and humidity occur in the northern sub-regions than in those farther south.

Riesling / Educator guide The predominant soils are similar to those of the Margaret River region – either lateritic gravelly sandy loams marri country or sandy loams deriving directly SOIL from granite and gneissic bedrocks. They are typically brown to grey-brown in colour, with the percentage of clay varying from one location to another. Fertility is moderate, as are typical yields.

SUGGESTED Notable producers DISCUSSION POINTS The Great Southern region is known for – Why is Riesling grown so producing Rieslings of great intensity, successfully in the Clare Valley, typically in the citrus spectrum with an which is technically a warm-climate underlay of herbs. Fresh and nervy in their region? youth, they typically age superbly, seldom – What are some of the differences reaching the peak of their development between Clare Valley Riesling and in less than 10 years. Tasmanian Riesling? Notable producers include: – Why is site selection so important – Alkoomi Wines. in the Great Southern region? – Castle Rock Estate. – Frankland Estate. – Forest Hill. – La Violetta. – Plantagenet.

Riesling / Educator guide COMMON RIESLING STYLES

Riesling is a versatile SWEETNESS variety that’s all about SCALE tension and balance, Bone- with styles ranging dry from dry to sweet. Dry 3 common styles in Australia: - Dry: Lean, citrus- Off-dry driven, low residual sugar Medium- - Off-dry: A hint more dry residual sweetness Medium- balanced by acidity sweet - Dessert wine: Sweet, age-worthy, rich Sweet

COMMON RIESLING STYLES Off-dry Riesling Riesling is all about tension and balance. Off-dry styles are becoming more common It can express a crisp, nervy nature with a in Australia, as winemakers explore a wider racy backbone of acidity or be made in a range of Riesling wines. Off-dry Rieslings rich, fruitier style that walks a tightrope of show a hint more sweetness than a dry wine sweetness and acidity. Ranging from dry and due to their slightly higher level of residual off-dry to semi-sweet and sweet, the most sugar, without tasting very sweet. They retain common styles in Australia are dry and off- fresh citrus and spring blossom characters, dry, with some dessert wines also produced. with acidity balanced by residual sweetness more reminiscent of fresh fruit than sugar. Dry Riesling The vast majority of Riesling in Australia is Sweet, dessert Riesling harvested for crisp, dry wine production, Late harvest Rieslings are made from grapes with the prominent regions renowned for that are left on the vine and harvested their lean, citrus-driven styles. Riesling wines later in the season, when they are riper and fermented dry generally have less than higher in sugar. 5g/L residual sugar and moderate levels Select winemakers, including Mount of alcohol (11% ABV and above), the sugar Horrocks and , are experimenting having been converted to alcohol. The best with ‘cordon cut’ wines. Cordon cut is the examples retain Riesling’s natural fruitiness to practice of cutting either the individual prevent the naturally high acids from making cane with bunches attached, or one of the the wine too tart. growing arms (cordons) with multiple canes attached. This allows the grapes to raisin

Riesling / Educator guide ADVANCED naturally on the vine, concentrating both NOTES flavour and sugar levels. NOBLE ROT: FRIEND AND FOE Some Botrytis (‘noble rot’) wines are Botrytis cinerea is one of a number produced in regions where the right of different fungi that can cause conditions occur, such as Riverina in New bunch rot in grapevines. It’s a weather- South Wales. The grapes are naturally driven disease that can cause infected with Botrytis cinerea, a type of significant loss of grape yield and fungus, which rots and shrivels the grapes quality. Grapegrowers use a range of and concentrates their flavour. management measures to help prevent These sweet, age-worthy Riesling styles are Botrytis. However, there are times when typically rich in colour and mouthfeel, with growers actually encourage rotting citrus, marmalade and apricot aromas and grapes – specifically, when they wish to intense, complex flavours. create sweeter, more complex dessert wines. This can only be done in regions and conditions where the development DID YOU KNOW of its benign form is possible (e.g. The best Rieslings can be cellared humid misty mornings and warmer/dry for decades. The acidity and bright afternoons with breezes to dry out fruit characters provide the perfect the grapes). framework for maturation. High Botrytis causes grapes to dehydrate acidity aids longevity and screw caps while maintaining the sugar levels, ensure only minimal oxygen ingress. resulting in sweeter and more viscous wines. Riesling has a particular affinity for Botrytis, with the resultant sweet wine typically showing exotic citrus and spice aromas, as well as toffee, honey and apricot notes.

SUGGESTED DISCUSSION POINTS – What would you expect to be the main differences between a dry and an off-dry style of Riesling? – What foods might you pair with an off-dry Riesling that may not work as well with a dry wine? – How do Botrytis Riesling dessert wines differ from late harvest or cordon cut styles?

Riesling / Educator guide CHARACTERISTICS AND FLAVOUR PROFILES

CHARACTERISTICS

COLOUR Riesling FLAVOURS Light Medium Full BODY – Lime zest – Preserved lemon Dry Medium dry Sweet SWEETNESS – Apple – Orange blossom Medium High OAK ACIDIT Y 8% 11–13.5% 17% AUSTRALIAN

ALCOHOL RIESLING

TIME TO TASTE! while the crisp, juicy acidity softens over time, giving the wines a smoother texture NOW IS AN APPROPRIATE TIME and richer mouthfeel. TO TASTE AND DISCUSS YOUR SELECTED MIX OF WINES.

RIESLING CHARACTERISTICS AND FLAVOUR PROFILES Australian Rieslings are some of the most pure and elegant dry white wines in the world. Riesling grapes produce light-bodied to medium-bodied wines with high acid presence. Depending on the region, typical Australian Rieslings generally have a floral perfume, strong citrus notes, green apple and exotic spice characters. Australian Riesling is zippy, fresh and drinkable when it’s very young, but the best wines can mature for decades. The vibrant, citrus-based characters transform into flavours of honey, toast and lemon curd,

Riesling / Educator guide COMPLEXITY OVER TIME

Me  , to t, n  , brûlée Soft a  ty, le n , Developing to t,  mplexity, n  Juicy a  ty, flo l, f  lime, le n/lime, lime  st n 

AGE IN YEARS 1 2 5 10

Riesling / Educator guide FOOD PAIRINGS

OYSTERS PRAWNS/ WHITE FISH SHRIMP

CHICKEN PORK SPICY FOOD SOFT CHEESE

FOOD PAIRING It’s no surprise that versatile Riesling is a perfect partner for food. Crisp, dry Riesling with lemon-lime characters: Fish, shellfish and crustaceans are ideal pairings, especially served with a touch of lemon, capers, butter sauce or Asian dressings. Chicken and pork dishes work well with a medium-bodied style. Off-dry Riesling: A great partner to rich pâté or ripe, soft cheeses, providing a foil to the creamy richness. With its balance of sugar and acidity, it’s also one of the few wines that pairs well with spicy Asian dishes, especially chicken and pork. Mature or sweet Botrytised Riesling: Sings alongside a pungent blue or soft white-rind cheese.

Riesling / Educator guide UNITED KINGDOM FINLAND 6% 5% CRUSH EXPORT DESTINATIONS

CHINA OF AUST LIA’S CANADA 9% % TO L W TE 6% 3  N E C   UNITED STATES 36% RIESLINGBY NUMBERS

EXPORTS PLANTINGS Approx. MILLION 5.1 LITRES 3,157  C   S % OF AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN = 1 WINE EXPORTS = 2% TOTAL

*Source: Wine Australia, 2017

Price range Riesling delivers some of the best value of any wine in Australia, offering top-quality drops for a steal – most under A$50 (US$38). You’ll find many outstanding examples in the A$15–$30 (US$11–$23) price range, bursting with zippy freshness and racy citrus and generally designed to drink young. In the A$30–$50 (US$23–$38) bracket, you’ll find premium expressions of Riesling with bottle age or the potential to age for many years, made with fruit sourced from acclaimed vineyards. This price point also features interesting experimental expressions of Riesling. Moving up the price point scale to $50 ($38) and beyond, you can expect to find a small range of premium, reserve wine crafted by Australia’s leading winemakers.

Riesling / Educator guide AUSTRALIAN RIESLING A FUTURE OF POSSIBILITY AND POTENTIAL

THE FUTURE OF RIESLING: POSSIBILITY AND POTENTIAL With Riesling once again enjoying a glowing reputation as growing numbers of consumers discover, or rediscover, its charms, the future is bright for this noble grape. We can expect to see a greater diversity of styles as innovative winemakers throw out the Riesling rule book and experiment with different techniques that push the boundaries of possibility.

Riesling / Educator guide KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER – Riesling is one of Australia’s oldest varieties. For much of the 19th and 20th centuries, it was the most popular white variety until Chardonnay overtook it in the 1990s. – Riesling has been in and out of fashion throughout its history in Australia, overcoming the misconception that it is a sweet wine. Today, its reputation is again soaring. – Winemakers typically take a minimal intervention approach, allowing this delicate, expressive variety to sing. However, forward-thinking producers are also exploring new and ancient techniques to produce fascinating and complex wines. – Australian styles are typically dry, with off-dry and dessert wine styles becoming more common. Dry styles are known for their racy acidity and bright fruit characters of lemon and lime. – The best Rieslings can be cellared for decades, their high acidity aiding longevity and citrus fruit characters mellowing into richer nutty, toffee-like characters. – The best Australian Riesling comes from cool-climate regions or regions with elevation or cooling ocean breezes, including Clare and Eden Valleys, Tasmania and Great Southern.

Riesling / Educator guide THANK YOU