Wines Marlborough Framingham - Classic Riesling - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Framingham’s Classic Riesling 2020 from Marlborough brilliantly showcases the vibrant character and purity that New Zealand’s South Island is known for. Crafted exclusively from Riesling grapes, this wine displays radiant citrus notes, lively acidity and a fine mineral undertone. The 2020 vintage benefitted from a cool but sunny growing season, preserving natural acidity and developing refined aromatics. Framingham is renowned for minimal-intervention winemaking; hand-harvested grapes are gently pressed, and the wine is fermented using indigenous yeasts. This approach allows subtle orchard fruits—lime, lemon zest, green apple—and delicate floral hints to shine through, unfettered by excessive manipulation.

Marlborough, situated at the northeastern tip of the South Island, has rapidly gained global acclaim, particularly for its aromatic whites. The region enjoys long sunshine hours, cool night temperatures, and a marked maritime influence, which together foster a slow ripening period. The free-draining, gravelly soils in Marlborough contribute to the clarity and precision of flavours in its white wines. While Sauvignon Blanc is the headline act, Riesling from the region stands out for freshness, finesse, and ageing potential. Winegrowing here only began in earnest in the 1970s, but Marlborough quickly established itself thanks to its extraordinary terroir and innovative spirit.

A dry Riesling like Framingham’s is incredibly versatile at the table. Its racy acidity and citrus drive make it a refreshing partner for seafood—think Marlborough green-lipped mussels, fresh oysters, or simple grilled fish. Asian-inspired dishes such as Thai green curry or Vietnamese summer rolls are also excellent matches, as the wine’s vibrant profile both complements spice and cleanses the palate. For a local touch, try it with New Zealand goat’s cheese on seeded crackers.

For peak enjoyment, serve this Riesling chilled but not too cold, ideally between 8-10°C. This temperature range preserves its crispness while allowing the delicate floral aromas and generous fruit to fully express themselves. The wine is delightful in its youth, but with a few years in the cellar, notes of honey and toast are likely to emerge, rewarding a bit more patience.