Leeuwin releases latest Art Series

Australia’s Leeuwin Estate has released the 2013 vintage of its “Art Series” Riesling, which it has declared one of its “finest”.

The Margaret River estate explained that the 2013 growing season had begun with a late spring characterised by strong winds, rain and “significant” hail.

Summer was warmer than average and the harvest took place in mid-February, the juice was cold settled with enzymes for seven to 10 days and the lees were then racked off. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks at 10-12°C.

Leeuwin’s winemaker, Paul Atwood, also explained that the estate had been trying a new pruning regime with the Riesling as well.

He said: “Leeuwin Estate has been undertaking pruning trials on its Riesling vines. In the past the Riesling vines were pruned in August, but in the last few years we have been pruning the Riesling at the same time as we prune the Cabernet vines, from 1 June. The results so far have been striking. The grapes ripen earlier, retain their acidity better and produce wines that show great freshness.”

As for the 2013 vintage, he continued: “The 2013 Art Series Riesling has a fine, taut palate that is bursting with Tahitian lime and lemon pith characters. Lively and racy acid underpins the palate throughout. Mineral and flint characters make this vintage one of our finest.”