Jacob's Creek Steingarten Riesling 2012

Renowned as one of the preeminent wineries in the esteemed Barossa Valley, Jacob's Creek proudly presents the Steingarten, sourced from fruit cultivated in the valley's coolest regions. This exceptional Riesling embodies tight, intense varietal character, accentuated by an extraordinary length of flavor. Whether savored in the present moment or meticulously cellared for up to an astonishing 20 years, the Jacob's Creek Steingarten promises a remarkable and enduring wine experience.

A very cool and wet winter preceded the 2012 growing season with above average rainfall being observed throughout Eden Valley. Soil moisture profiles were at an optimum level which supported the early development of healthy vine physiology following budburst. Cool to mild conditions prevailed during spring which set the potential for high quality fruit from moderate grape yields. The start of 2012 saw dry warm to hot weather conditions which necessitated the requirement of supplementary irrigation to ensure the Riesling grape quality was maintained at the highest possible level. The fruit was harvested during early to mid March at optimum flavour and ripeness balance, thus ensuring the fresh and vibrant flavours were preserved in the resultant wine. The 2012 Jacob’s Creek Steingarten Riesling reveals characteristics of an outstanding vintage year, highlighted by pristine fruit aroma, flavour of scented white floral gardenia and lemon blossom. This is combined with a sweet lime fruit intensity, which is supported through the palate with a crisp mineral acidity that typifies the varietal fruit profile of a classic cool climate Riesling.

To ensure the grapes were harvested at optimum flavour and acid balance the ripening of the grapes was monitored with regular berry tasting by winemakers and viticulturists in the vineyard. The fruit was harvested in the cool of the night and rapidly transported to the winery. After crushing and must chilling, the free run juice was drained and clarified with minimum skin contact. This juice was then cool fermented between 13 – 15C with selected yeast to enhance the delicate Riesling flavours. The wine was bottled under strict anaerobic conditions and packaged with a screw cap closure to retain the pristine aromas and flavours. The 2012 Steingarten Riesling displays all the qualities of a classic cool climate aromatic white wine style.