2024 Amisfield Dry Riesling – An elegant Riesling from Central Otago with freshness, finesse, and structure

The 2024 Amisfield Dry Riesling comes from the high-altitude plots of Blocks 1 and 10 in Central Otago—characterized by Lochar gravel soils overlaid with sandy loam. The cool location, dry climate, and mineral-rich soils give this New Zealand Riesling precise, clean aromas with striking freshness and texture. The vines are 19–25 years old and are deeply rooted in the terroir of this alpine region.

The 2024 vintage began with a foggy winter that minimized frost damage. Despite a severe frost in October, the Amisfield team was able to protect the vines for the most part. A dry, windy summer led to low disease pressure—resulting in healthy grapes with high aromatic intensity. The grapes were harvested on March 7 under ideal conditions—a satisfying conclusion to a challenging but rewarding year.

What makes the Amisfield Dry Riesling so special?

This dry Riesling from Central Otago combines alpine freshness with finesse and elegance. Aging in large wooden barrels and five months of aging on the fine lees give it depth and a creamy mouthfeel without losing its citrus clarity. The old vines and stony terroir provide distinctive minerality—a wine for fans of dry, structured Rieslings with a long finish and aging potential. Vegan and hand-harvested—vinified with the utmost care.

So, how does the 2024 Amisfield Dry Riesling taste?

The wine offers aromas of white flowers, fresh apple, and a hint of apricot. On the palate, it impresses with notes of ripe lime, juicy citrus, and a subtle hint of sun-kissed stone fruit. The crisp, lively acidity provides structure and precision. Aging in large wooden barrels (foudres) lends the wine additional texture without masking its freshness—a dry Riesling with depth, length, and mineral clarity.