Gibson Wines, through its Discovery Road range, has unveiled its latest innovation, Gibson Riesling Seltzer, crafted with single-vineyard Eden Valley Riesling.
Available in a limited release, the Gibson Riseling Seltzer combines Riesling with pure sparkling water from Adelaide Hills brand A Rock And A Hard Place, packaged in 250ml single serve cans.
Only 230 cases of the Riesling Seltzer have been made available nationwide, with a limited number designated to a first-come-first-serve online registration.
Gibson Wines has experimented with new concepts and production techniques since 2021, and describes the Gibson Riesling Seltzer as an Australian-first.
As the winemaker seeks to diversify its portfolio, the RTD has been designed to introduce a new generation of consumers to Riesling and premiumise the booming seltzer category.
Gibson Wines CEO Chad Elson says the innovation was inspired by the amazing success A Rock And A Hard Place has had with its premium Adelaide Hills water.
“It’s featured in some of South Australia’s top dining venues. It’s a pristine product from pristine environs and speaks of a specific place,” he explained.
“The other [inspiration] was working with the Barossa Bushgardens, our local botanic garden, which acts as a seedbank and nursery for plant species native to the region. We discovered native lemongrass through specimen plantings there. Learning of its history used as a herbal tea in Indigenous culture, we then sourced it in larger quantities from an Indigenous-owned native food supplier, based in the Clare Valley.
“We use native lemongrass botanicals in the seltzer description deliberately. It’s gin-like language, which should only help with curiosity from those already engaged with other craft liquor categories,” he continued.
Winemaker Adam Fierget describes the seltzer as “Riesling reimagined”.
“You get this subtle lemon sorbet aromatic from the lemongrass that sits beautifully with pure citrus qualities of Eden Valley Riesling. The slatey, mineral finish brought out through the sparkling spring water is ultra refreshing”, he explained.