Briar Ridge Limited Release 2024 Fiano: A Bold New Chapter in Hunter Valley Winemaking
The Hunter Valley’s 2024 vintage kicked off earlier than usual, influenced by an unusually early Easter. While initial frosts and rain kept vineyard teams on their toes, a warm festive season rewarded patient growers with a harvest of striking flavour intensity. Among the highlights is the new Briar Ridge 2024 Fiano Limited Release, showcasing the winery’s finesse in coaxing the best from this Italian gem.
Vineyard Origins and Philosophy
Nestled in Mount View—a subregion revered for its well-drained, sandy loam soils—Briar Ridge’s Fiano vines have found an ideal home. Planted in 2016 and situated in front of the historic Squire Cottage, these vines produce low yields and highly concentrated fruit. The team has been thrilled by the grape’s potential here and believes this site will continue to impress with future vintages.
Winemaking Approach
The 2024 Fiano journey began with handpicked fruit, which was gently pressed and divided between two fermentation vessels: 75% stainless steel and 25% new oak. This dual approach marries vibrant fruit purity with a subtle kiss of oak. Regular bâtonnage (stirring of the lees) extended the wine’s texture and complexity, while the absence of sulphur during maturation allowed nuanced, savoury characteristics to flourish. A light fining and filtration in June 2024 sealed the final blend.
Tasting Notes
Pour a glass and discover an alluring bouquet of ripe nashi pear joined by whispers of ginger spice. On the palate, a finely tuned nutty reduction hints at savoury depth, segueing into a plush mid-palate layered with complex fruit tones. A lively acidity balances the wine’s richness, resulting in a refined, medium-bodied white with a satisfying, lingering finish. Expect it to show at its best over the next four years, accentuating its fresh fruit profile and subtle oak influence.
Briar Ridge’s Limited Release 2024 Fiano captures the excitement of an early harvest and the meticulous craftsmanship behind it. Deeply concentrated yet elegantly composed, this is a must-try for adventurous palates keen to explore the Hunter Valley’s capacity for innovation. Serve it lightly chilled—perhaps alongside seafood dishes or aromatic Asian cuisine—to appreciate every fragrant, textural nuance.
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