We have recently released two new-vintage white wines: the 2025 First Ridge Fiano ($30) and the 2025 First Ridge Vermentino ($28). Both wines are attracting strong interest following their recent success on the show circuit, with each receiving major trophies.
Vintage 2025 in Mudgee saw a relatively dry winter, and early spring required irrigation to support vine growth, with November rains improving canopy vigour and fruit balance. Summer was mostly stable with occasional hot days and periodic showers. Warm days and cool nights in autumn allowed for an early, unpressured harvest, with both Fiano and Vermentino developing intense varietal character and fresh acidity.
A flagship white variety for the winery, the 2025 First Ridge Fiano impressed at the 25th Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show, where it was awarded the Trophy for Best White Italian Variety Wine. The class attracted well over 150 entries across Fiano, Vermentino, Pecorino and other Italian-variety categories. With the growing popularity of Fiano and its increasing number of entries, it has been suggested that its time as an “alternative variety” may be limited.
The First Ridge Fiano was harvested at optimum ripeness and pressed off skins, with 30 per cent of the grapes transferred to seasoned 300-litre French oak barriques to undergo wild fermentation, building texture and layers of flavour. This component was then blended with the remaining portion, which was fermented in stainless steel, prior to bottling.
Joining the Fiano is the 2025 First Ridge Vermentino, which was awarded the Trophy for Best Other White at the 2025 Australia & New Zealand Boutique Wine Awards, as well as the Trophy for Best White Wine (not Chardonnay, Semillon or Riesling) at the 2025 Mudgee Wine Show. The Vermentino was harvested in the cool of the morning at 12.5° baumé before being pressed off skins and fermented in stainless steel using an aromatic yeast to accentuate and capture the variety’s natural characteristics.
We are very proud of these wines. They really highlight the synergies that occur when we see a favourable vintage for vines planted in the right place, nurtured and respected by an experienced and knowledgeable winemaker. The results can be exceptional.
