Porongurup Gruner Veltliner

Tasting Notes:

The Castle Rock Estate Grüner Veltliner presents a pale lemon colour, with a bouquet that immediately captivates with vibrant guava aromas, offering a fresh and inviting profile.

On the palate, the wine is bright, delicate, and fresh. The guava flavours carry through seamlessly, enhanced by notes of feijoa and a delicate spice character. A touch of richness from the lees contact adds a savoury dimension, contributing to the wine’s impressive complexity. The finish is long and lingering, with the freshness and purity of the fruit shining through.

Food Pairing Suggestions:

• Roast Pork: A traditional pairing with Grüner Veltliner, where the wine’s freshness complements the rich flavours of roasted meat.
• Veal Schnitzel: The light spice and acidity of the wine will cut through the crispy, golden crust of veal schnitzel, creating a harmonious pairing.
• Fish & Chips: For a more casual meal, this wine’s crisp acidity and fruit-driven profile pair beautifully with the simple joy of fish and chips, especially on a sunny day.
• Chicken and Egg Donburi: A rich, comforting Japanese dish that would harmonise well with the wine’s citrus and green apple notes.

Best Serving Temp:

Serve the 2023 Grüner Veltliner lightly chilled at 10°C to 12°C to allow the fresh fruit and subtle complexity to shine through.

• If storing in the fridge (5°C): Remove the bottle 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to warm slightly.

Additional Information:

• Grape Variety: Grüner Veltliner
• Region: Great Southern, Western Australia
• Alcohol: 11.5% by Vol | 6.8 Standard Drinks
• pH: 3.39
• TA: 6.1 g/L
• RS: 0.1 g/L
• Closure: Screwcap
• Vintage: 2023
• Volume: 750ml
• Harvest Date: 22 March 2023
• Bottling Date: 15 August 2023

Technical Terms Explained:

• Lees Contact: Refers to the period when the wine is in contact with the dead yeast cells after fermentation (the lees), which imparts a subtle richness, texture, and complexity to the wine.
• Puncheons & Barriques: Types of oak barrels used for fermentation and maturation. Puncheons are larger than barriques, allowing for a gentler influence of oak on the wine.
• Residual Sugar (RS): The amount of sugar remaining in the wine after fermentation. This wine has a very low RS (0.1 g/L), contributing to its dry and fresh character.
• pH & TA: pH measures the acidity of the wine, while TA (total acidity) quantifies it in terms of grams per litre. This wine has a well-balanced pH of 3.39 and a TA of 6.1 g/L, contributing to its refreshing acidity.

Awards & Reviews:

• Young Gun of Wine: Recognised as one of Australia’s best Grüner Veltliners.

Learn about Castle Rock Estate

Nestled in the scenic Porongurup Ranges, Castle Rock Winery is a hidden treasure located along Progroup Road in the Plantagenet Shire, just 40 km north of Albany in Western Australia’s acclaimed Great Southern wine region. This locale is renowned for its unique terroir, consistently producing wines that exhibit exceptional precision, vitality, and character. As a proud stockist, Partners in Wine WA is excited to showcase their range, reflecting the quality and craftsmanship that Castle Rock embodies.

Castle Rock Winery: A Hidden Gem in the Great Southern

Perched at an altitude of 300 metres, the vineyard enjoys the benefits of cooler south-east breezes that extend the growing season. This environment is perfect for ripening heat-sensitive varieties like Pinot Noir and Riesling, allowing them to flourish while maintaining their natural acidity. The unique microclimate here promotes the optimal development of these grapes, resulting in wines that are not only rich in flavour but also refreshing, capturing the essence of their cool-climate origins.

Castle Rock’s vineyard management practices are commendable, focusing on meticulous canopy management to enhance airflow through the vines. This sustainable approach minimises the need for fungicides, promoting a healthier ecosystem within the vineyard. The winery is dedicated to fostering this natural balance, avoiding synthetic pesticides or insecticides in favour of nurturing a vibrant ecosystem that supports beneficial insects and wildlife.

At the heart of Castle Rock Winery is the talented Rob Diletti, son of founders Angelo and Wendy Diletti. Since its establishment in 1983, the winery has flourished under the Diletti family’s stewardship. Rob’s formative years spent among the vines have profoundly shaped his winemaking philosophy. His passion for grape-growing and winemaking has made him a respected figure in the industry, crafting wines that authentically reflect their terroir. Beyond his role at Castle Rock, Rob also contributes his expertise to various prominent wineries across Western Australia.

Visitors to Castle Rock Winery can expect more than just outstanding wines; they can also soak in the breathtaking scenery surrounding the vineyard. The Porongurup Ranges offer a stunning backdrop, making it a perfect destination for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. The winery welcomes guests for tastings and tours, providing insights into the winemaking process and Castle Rock’s sustainable viticulture philosophy.

As a retailer, Partners in Wine WA is proud to feature Castle Rock’s wines, allowing customers to experience the unique quality of this esteemed winery. Our selection includes their standout varietals, ensuring both connoisseurs and casual wine drinkers find something delightful. Additionally, we are happy to facilitate special orders for non-stocked wines, reinforcing our commitment to providing access to Castle Rock’s full range.

In conclusion, Castle Rock Winery exemplifies the remarkable potential of the Great Southern wine region. With its dedication to sustainable practices, skilled winemaking, and a focus on expressing the unique terroir of its elevated vineyard, Castle Rock consistently produces wines that resonate with local and international wine lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, the wines from Castle Rock promise an experience that embodies the spirit of Western Australia’s thriving wine scene. At Partners in Wine WA, we invite you to explore this exceptional range and discover the allure of Castle Rock Winery.

Check out the latest Ray Jordan wine reviews.