First Ridge Wines - located on the outskirts of beautiful Mudgee - has released two new vintages: the 2024 First Ridge Pinot Grigio ($28) and the 2024 First Ridge ‘Alira’ Prosecco ($32).
The 2024 vintage came early this year, thanks to a dry growing season that allowed grapes to ripen perfectly while maintaining their bright natural acidity. This meticulous timing has resulted in wines of exceptional quality, showcasing the expertise of First Ridge’s winemaking team.
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First Ridge holds a unique place in Mudgee as the region’s only Prosecco producer. By grafting onto vines planted in 1997, they pioneered this Italian variety in a landscape traditionally known for other styles. According to owner and vigneron John Nicholas, Prosecco has become one of the most popular choices at their cellar door, introducing visitors to the rich history of Italian varietals in Mudgee.
While First Ridge led the way by embracing Prosecco, other local winemakers are now following suit, drawn by its growing demand and suitability to the region’s warming climate. Nicholas is enthusiastic about this trend, seeing a bright future for Prosecco in Mudgee’s wine scene.
“Prosecco is now the eighth most-produced grape variety in Australia, and it thrives in Mudgee. Our Prosecco block, situated at approximately 600m elevation, benefits from a unique mix of shallow topsoil with basalt and quartz rock transitioning to deeper loams over neutral clays – ideal for producing high-quality, varietal fruit,” says Nicholas.
Complementing the sparkling newcomer is the 2024 First Ridge Pinot Grigio. Like its predecessor, this release continues First Ridge’s tradition of producing premium, food-friendly Italian varieties. It’s a nod to Mudgee’s Italian winemaking heritage that dates back to the influence of oenologist Carlo Carino in the 1970s.
Nicholas says Pinot Grigio’s popularity continues to rise, now outpacing Sauvignon Blanc with a nine per cent increase in retail sales (according to Wine Australia). This trend is echoed by visitors to the winery, who frequently seek out this variety. “Our goal is to craft a food-friendly Pinot Grigio – one that balances crisp acidity with delicate flavours.”
Both wines are available at select retailers, restaurants across NSW, and online.
- What: First Ridge Wine
- Where: 577 Burrundulla Road, Mudgee