Settlement Ashmore Riesling 2019

Founded by Steve Planthaber, originally from Adelaide but post school left for the South Island of New Zealand. A move to Marlborough with his partner Kirsty Sutherland cemented his love for all things wine. Hard not to be inspired when meeting the Sutherland’s who were one of the pioneers of viticulture in the region, part of the original success of Cloudy Bay followed by establishing their own estate Dog Point. Steve was keen to find his own path and after 12 years running the production and operations at Cloudy Bay decided to begin his own wine brand, Settlement.

Settlement, named after the stunning Amphitheatre single vineyard site in the Omaka Valley, is dedicated entirely to the production of organic, old vine single vineyard expressions of very special sites in Marlborough. 

Planted in 1997 the Ashmore vineyard is located in the southern end Wairau Valley hence why it has a soil type reflecting the signature of the Southern Valleys, with silt loam soils overlying clay Although the vineyard has irrigation it’s never used, simply due to the now established 23 year old plantings and terrior. Hand-picked, whole bunch pressed to tank. Marlborough of course produces wines with naturally very high acidity (in this case a PH of 2.88) and with this in mind Steve was keen to balance this in the Riesling, finishing the ferment early to retain some residual sugar,15 grams to be exact. 12 months in bottle before release.

From the Ashmore Vineyard – Very enticing aromas of ripe citrus, apple, mandarin and lime-flower scents. There’s a wet river-stone minerality and light saline note. On the palate – an off-dry style with just a few seconds of sweetness before the core of fruit and acidity brings contrast, texture and length. Youthful, balanced, well made and delicious. Best drinking from late 2021 through 2029+. Cameron Douglas MW, 94 Points

The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Riesling
Country - New Zealand
Region - Marlborough
Vintage - 2019
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 12%
Other - Organic
Closure - Screw Cap