Mudgee’s First Ridge Wines has released its 2025 Fiano and 2025 Vermentino, two white wines already gaining attention on the show circuit.
The 2025 First Ridge Fiano, $30, was awarded the Trophy for Best White Italian Variety at the 25th Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show. The class drew more than 150 entries across Fiano, Vermentino, Pecorino and other Italian varieties, reflecting how established these styles have become in Australia. Fiano is now a leading white in several regions, and First Ridge has positioned it as a key variety.
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Vintage conditions in Mudgee were favourable overall. A dry winter and early spring required careful vineyard management, but November's rain restored balance. Summer remained steady, with warm days and light showers, followed by warm autumn days and cool nights that allowed for an early, low-pressure harvest.
The Fiano reflects those conditions. The fruit was picked at optimal ripeness and pressed off skins, with a portion fermented naturally to add texture. It was then blended with the stainless steel fermented component to maintain clarity and freshness.
The 2025 First Ridge Vermentino, $28, has also performed strongly, receiving the Trophy for Best Other White at the Australia and New Zealand Boutique Wine Awards and the Trophy for Best White Wine outside Chardonnay, Semillon and Riesling at the 2025 Mudgee Wine Show. Gold medals at both Mudgee and the Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show have increased its profile beyond the region.
The Vermentino was picked early in the morning to retain freshness, then fermented in stainless steel with a yeast selected to highlight the variety’s natural character. The result is a clean, restrained expression that keeps the focus on the fruit.
For owner and vigneron John Nicholas, the success of both wines reflects a season in which vineyard conditions, variety, and winemaking approach were well matched.
Both wines are available through select retailers, restaurants and online.
- 2025 First Ridge Fiano, Mudgee NSW, $30
- 2025 First Ridge Vermentino, Mudgee NSW, $28