Collection: Riesling

Key Characteristics

• Appearance: Pale straw to golden yellow, with more golden hues developing in aged wines.
• Aroma: Intensely aromatic, with notes of green apple, pear, apricot, peach, and citrus. Secondary aromas often include floral notes (honeysuckle, jasmine), petrol (in aged Rieslings), and minerality.
• Flavor Profile:
  • Dry Riesling: Crisp and zesty, with flavors of lime, green apple, and stony minerality.
  • Sweet Riesling: Lush and fruity, with honeyed notes of peach, apricot, and tropical fruits.
  • Aged Riesling: Complex layers of honey, petrol, and dried fruit with a distinct minerality.
• Mouthfeel: Light to medium-bodied, with vibrant acidity that balances the fruit sweetness and creates a refreshing, clean finish.

Ideal Pairings

Riesling’s bright acidity and range of styles make it a perfect match for a variety of dishes:

• Dry Riesling:
  • Fresh seafood such as oysters, shrimp, or sushi.
  • Light salads and vegetable dishes.
  • Poultry or pork with citrus-based sauces.
• Off-Dry or Sweet Riesling:
  • Spicy cuisines like Thai, Indian, or Szechuan dishes.
  • Roasted duck or glazed ham.
  • Creamy cheeses such as Brie or blue cheese.
• Dessert Riesling:
  • Fruit-based desserts like apple tart, peach cobbler, or lemon meringue pie.

Short History of Riesling

Riesling has been cultivated for centuries, with its origins traced to Germany’s Rhine region in the 15th century. It quickly became the flagship grape of Germany, where it flourishes in cool climates and steep river valleys. By the 19th century, Riesling was among the most sought-after wines in Europe, commanding high prices.

Over time, Riesling spread to other countries, including France (Alsace), Austria, Australia, and the United States, each producing unique expressions of this adaptable grape. Its association with high-quality winemaking has endured, making it a cornerstone of global viticulture.

Regions That Produce It

Riesling thrives in cool climates, where it develops its signature balance of acidity and fruit:

• Germany: Mosel, Rheingau, Pfalz, Nahe
• France: Alsace
• Austria: Wachau, Kamptal, Kremstal
• Australia: Clare Valley, Eden Valley
• USA: Finger Lakes (New York), Washington State
• New Zealand: Marlborough, Central Otago

Styles of Riesling

1. Dry Riesling (Trocken): Crisp, with vibrant acidity and citrus-driven flavors.
2. Off-Dry Riesling: Slight sweetness balances the acidity, with ripe fruit flavors.
3. Sweet Riesling: Rich and fruity, often with honeyed and tropical notes.
4. Dessert Riesling: Late-harvest or botrytized wines (e.g., Beerenauslese, Trockenbeerenauslese, Ice Wine) that are intensely sweet and luscious.
5. Aged Riesling: Complex, with petrol notes, dried fruit, and pronounced minerality.

Riesling’s ability to adapt to various styles, its food-friendly nature, and its capacity to age beautifully ensure its place as one of the most beloved and respected white wines in the world. Whether dry or sweet, Riesling offers a wine experience that is both approachable and profoundly rewarding.