Riesling

Riesling
1. What It Is
Riesling is a white grape that makes some of the most aromatic and refreshing wines in the world.
It comes from Germany, where it grows along the Rhine and Mosel rivers, but it is also planted in Austria, France (Alsace), Australia, New Zealand, and North America.
Riesling wines can be dry, slightly sweet, or very sweet, but they are always high in acidity and full of flavour.
2. What It Tastes Like
Riesling is known for its bright, fruity aromas — think lime, green apple, and peach, with hints of flowers and honey as it ages.
The wines are usually light to medium in body and have a crisp, clean finish.
Older Rieslings can develop a unique petrol or toasty note that wine lovers admire.
3. Where It Grows
| Region | Country | Typical Style |
|---|---|---|
| Mosel | Germany | Light, slightly sweet, very fresh |
| Wachau | Austria | Dry, fruity, and mineral |
| Alsace | France | Full-bodied, dry, aromatic |
| Clare & Eden Valleys | Australia | Very dry, lime and citrus flavours |
| Marlborough | New Zealand | Crisp, fruity, and floral |
| Finger Lakes / Washington / Canada | USA & Canada | Fresh, balanced, sometimes off-dry |
4. How It’s Made
Riesling is usually fermented in stainless steel to keep its bright fruit and freshness.
Most are unoaked, meaning they don’t taste of wood.
Sweet Rieslings are made from late-picked or frozen grapes, which gives them rich honey and apricot flavours.
5. What It Goes With
Riesling pairs beautifully with many foods because of its lively acidity and touch of sweetness.
It goes especially well with:
- Spicy dishes (like Thai or Indian curries)
- White meats and seafood
- Soft cheeses or fruity desserts
6. Quick Facts
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Colour | White |
| Acidity | High |
| Body | Light to medium |
| Sweetness | Dry to very sweet |
| Alcohol | Usually 11–13 % |
| Ageing | Can last for decades |
| Main Flavours | Lime, apple, peach, honey, mineral |
7. Summary
Riesling is a versatile and expressive white wine that shows the character of where it’s grown.
Whether crisp and dry or rich and sweet, it always tastes bright, fruity, and full of life.
Its balance of freshness and flavour makes it one of the most loved white wines in the world.
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