Critic Scores:

• 93 – Mike Bennie, The Wine Front

Sourced from the estate's younger, biodynamically farmed blocks overlooking Lake Wanaka, the "Jeunesse" bottling is deliberately crafted to deliver a pure, uninhibited expression of varietal energy rather than the deeper, macro-climate terroir of Rippon's oldest plots.

Showing a brilliantly clear, pale straw-yellow complexion in the glass, the 2019 vintage showcases the immense vibrancy of a classic Central Otago growing season.

The aromatics display a lovely duality, layering subtle, savory notes of light sourdough underneath a hyper-focussed burst of pure orchard fruit and citrus blossom.

On the palate, the wine unleashes a highly animated and complex profile, balancing soft sweetness with racy, structural focus. It handles its weight with a beautifully delicate, slightly slippery touch, weaving a deep array of juicy lime zest, white grapefruit, and tart stone fruits into a cohesive whole.

This textural persistence creates a seamless bridge to an immensely refreshing, bright, and crunchy finish.

Leading the critical evaluation for this youthful release, Mike Bennie of The Wine Front celebrated its vibrant personality and intense flavour play, labeling the profile as "a kaleidoscope of citrus flavours, sweet, sour, juicy, tart, bright, racy, all meshed together in a succulent yet gently slippery way."