Burn Cottage Riesling - Gruner Veltliner, Central Otago, New Zealand

White peach, jasmine, and lime zest rise from the glass with lifted aromatics and crystalline purity. 2021 Burn Cottage Riesling Grüner Veltliner marks the eighth release of this distinctive Central Otago blend, uniting 68% Riesling and 32% Grüner Veltliner from a cool microclimate high on the estate. With careful skin contact before fermentation and extended maturation across stainless steel, neutral oak, and sandstone vessels, it reflects Burn Cottage’s patient, site-driven philosophy and meticulous craftsmanship.

Product Details:

• Owners: Marquis Sauvage
  
• Winemaker: Claire Mulholland
• Varietals: 68% Riesling, 32% Grüner Veltliner
  
• Alcohol: 12.5%
  
• pH: 3.30
  
• Total Acidity: 6.2 g/L
• Residual Sugar: 7.5 g/L
  
• Harvest Dates: Grüner Veltliner 9 April 2021, Riesling 12 April 2021
  
• Brix at Harvest: Grüner Veltliner 22.7, Riesling 21.2
  
• Skin Contact: Grüner Veltliner 48 hours, Riesling 36 hours
  
• Fermentation & Aging: Fermented and aged 11 months in stainless steel barrels, neutral oak barriques, and sandstone jars

Sensory Description:

2021 Burn Cottage Riesling Grüner Veltliner opens with layered aromatics of white peach, citrus blossom, jasmine, lime peel, white pepper, and ginger spice. The palate is richly textured yet precise, shaped by measured skin contact that enhances phenolic grip and chalky mineral nuance. Riesling contributes vibrancy and lifted acidity, while Grüner Veltliner adds subtle spice and breadth. Flint and wet stone tones underscore the fruit, reflecting the estate’s sheltered amphitheatre site and high diurnal shifts during the growing season. The wine balances gentle residual sweetness with fine acidity, finishing long and persistent with supple structure and mineral clarity. The warm yet dynamic 2021 vintage provided concentration and flavor development while preserving freshness in this elevated microclimate.

Awards & Accolades:

• 92 Points: James Suckling
  
• 92 Points: Erin Larkin, The Wine Advocate

Winemaker’s Background:

Burn Cottage Vineyard is a twenty-four-hectare estate located in the foothills of the Pisa range in Central Otago. Purchased in 2002 by Marquis and Dianne Sauvage, the property forms a natural amphitheatre sheltered by surrounding hills, offering protection from prevailing winds and ideal growing conditions. With no immediate vineyard neighbors and a deep commitment to thoughtful site expression, the estate focuses on meticulous vineyard management and restrained cellar practices. Their wines consistently reflect balance, purity, and a profound respect for place.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 46 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit in a medium-sized white wine glass to highlight its aromatic complexity and textural depth. Pair with Thai or Vietnamese cuisine, fresh oysters, grilled white fish, roast chicken with herbs, or dishes featuring ginger and citrus. Its balance of acidity, spice, and gentle sweetness makes it particularly versatile at the table.