Mr. Riggs - Gold Chalk Chardonnay
As a young winemaker travelling the globe, the ‘Old World’ Chardonnays that Ben fell in love with in the 1980’s and were described as “like drinking cold chalk soup”, are the inspiration behind this Chardonnay. This wine has a naturally high acidity and is low in alcohol which aids in giving the wine its complexity. The aim for this Chardonnay is to show the complexity of the barrel fermentation characters rather than new oak characters. It demonstrates a flinty, steely edge and chalky mouth feel without compromising the purity of the fruit in both flavour and aroma.
Mr. Riggs - Montepulciano D’Adelaide
Whilst still a travelling consultant winemaker, Bens favourite region to visit was central and southern Italy. It was there that his love of Montepulciano began, and those memories have inspired him to make this Aussie version from fruit grown in the Adelaide Hills. Bright violet and rich red roll around the glass opaque, vibrant and alive with aromas of beef stock and crished mint. Hints of cinnamon spice right through a palate that graduates to both sweet tobacco and the cigar-box that held it; the finish lingers with vanilla straight from the pod. Only serious structure can contain this kitchen of flavour and it does so spectacularly.
Mr. Riggs - Watervale Riesling
The Watervale Riesling is sourced from Clare Valley’s cooler sub-region Watervale. The wonderfully delicate nose carries lime oil and soft citrus blossom characters seamlessly to the palate. Mouth feel is abundant and vibrant. This is a crisp, tangy and delicate example of a Clare Valley Riesling.
Mr. Riggs - Yacca Paddock Tempranilly
The fruit for this Tempranillo comes from Kuitpo in the south west escarpment of the Mount Lofty Ranges. The Yacca Paddock Tempranillo is a wonderfully textural, stylish wine with natural fruit sweetness and elegance. Characteristically it displays savoury tannins, dried herb undertones and highlights sweet tart red cherry flavours. It is a perfect food wine.