93 points - "The 2024 Alter Weg Riesling is rich and savory, with lemongrass, lanolin, white pepper, leafy green herbs, caper brine and green apple skin. In the mouth, the acidity weaves and winds through the phenolic detail, which has been teased open by the 11 months spent in old oak. This is a kaleidoscopic expression of Frankland River; it presents as incredibly complex, savory and very long when looked at blind, and it is through those experiences that I have learned the other side of this wine. It's a goodie. 12% alcohol, sealed under screw cap." - Erin Larkin (The Wine Advocate)

TASTING NOTE
Alter Weg translates to the "old way," describing our approach to this Riesling. Organic, ripe, balanced Riesling fruit is harvested and gently pressed into a large-format barrel, where it undergoes wild yeast fermentation. A further 11 months of aging on full lees in barrel results in a superbly textured Riesling with approachability and generosity of fruit, supported by the creamy textural element of this vibrant wine.

A lightly golden color reflects the slightly riper tone and more oxidative approach to the juice. Tangerine notes and a seductive saline moreishness complement the delicate aroma of spice and juicy ripe citrus tones.

The mineral yet juicy palate initially presents a very slight reduction aroma of gun smoke/ironstone, which gives way to the fruitfulness and volume of the wine as it opens up. Saline and crystalline notes add freshness and brightness, followed by a soft textural line that provides fullness and completeness. The tension in this wine masterfully balances the fruitful yet savory palate, with a delicious and mouth-watering finish driven by fine, well-rounded acidity.

Barrel maturation contributes to a notable roundness and fullness while maintaining the refined style characteristic of our organic Rieslings at Frankland Estate. A complex, balanced Riesling that will develop further complexity with age.

2024 VINTAGE
The 2024 vintage will be remembered for its dry, warm conditions from spring through harvest. Good winter rains ended as soon as spring arrived, with dry conditions persisting throughout the season. Several warmer-than-average weeks in late January and early February accelerated harvest. This resulted in a small crop with great intensity. The fruit was harvested between February 16th and March 1st in the cool of the early morning.

VINEYARD
This wine is made from 100% Riesling grown in the organically certified Isolation Ridge Vineyard at Frankland Estate. A selection of small ferments was sourced from parcels of fruit harvested from younger, close-planted Geisenheim clone vines planted in 2006 on a high ironstone rocky ridge, combined with some of Frankland Estate’s original Riesling plantings from 1988. Over the years, our organic practices have led to higher acid levels at greater ripeness, and with Alter Weg, we aim for maximum ripeness.

VINIFICATION
No additions of any kind are used in the making of Alter Weg Riesling. All Riesling grapes are harvested as cool as possible and pressed immediately. Slow press cycles allow for soft and extended juice extraction.

Picking decisions are based on ripeness and fruitfulness, with the goal of achieving natural balance while seeking greater ripeness. Cloudy juice is transferred to a combination of 1000L and 500L old oak barrels, where fermentation occurs with wild yeast. The wine remains on its lees for 11 months in barrel, continuing to build the textural complexity we seek in this wine.