Riesling is an aromatic white grape variety that’s native to Germany. It’s also commonly found associated with Alsace (France), the Clare and Eden Valleys (Australia), and the Finger Lakes (United States).

Its wine is a deliciously refreshing aromatic white wine that is native to growing areas along the Rhine River in Germany. It boasts crisp flavors of apples, apricots, peaches, and pears along with high levels of acidity. Riesling is one of only a few wines that has its own unique bottle shape, which is tall, slender glass and easy to spot on the shelf.

Where to find Riesling?

While Germany boasts the strongest and oldest ties to Riesling, by no means is it the only country where the aromatic white variety thrives.

Following the Rhine River to the south-west and crossing the French border, Riesling has found a prestigious home in the Alsace region.

Austria is also known for high-quality Riesling wines in a range of sweetness levels, though most are either dry or very sweet.

Outside of Europe, the Clare and Eden Valleys in South Australia are renowned for their unique, bone-dry style of Riesling.

In North America, Riesling has made a name for itself on both coasts. In Washington State, it’s typically made in a dry style and exhibits ripe stone fruit flavors. In New York State, Riesling has established itself as the flagship variety of the Finger Lakes AVA.

How Riesling Wine taste?

  • FRUIT FLAVORS (berries, fruit, citrus): apricot, nectarine, peach, apple, pear, pineapple, lime, Meyer lemon
  • OTHER AROMAS (herb, spice, flower, mineral, earth, other): honey, honeycomb, beeswax, petrol, ginger, citrus blossom, rubber, diesel fuel
  • AGED FLAVORS: diesel, petrol, lanolin
  • ACIDITY: High
  • SERVING TEMPERATURE: “Fridge Cold” 43 ºF (6 ºC)

What food to pair with Riesling?

Think Spice. Because of Riesling’s sweetness and acidity, it makes the perfect accompaniment to spicy food. Strong Indian and Asian spices are a perfect match with Riesling. A classic pairing with Riesling is spiced duck leg.

  • Meat Pairings: Duck, Pork, Bacon, Chicken, Shrimp, and Crab
  • Spices and Herbs: Highly spiced and aromatic herbs including Cayenne Pepper, Ginger, Clove, Cinnamon, Allspice, Tumeric, Madras Curry, Sichuan Pepper, Shallots, Soy Sauce, Sesame, Marjoram, Basil, Rice Vinegar, and Teriyaki Sauce.
  • Cheese Pairings: Try it with less stinky and delicately flavored soft cow’s milk cheese and dried fruit.
  • Vegetables & Vegetarian Fare: Roasted vegetables and veggies with natural sweetness including Coconut, Red Onion, Bell Pepper, Eggplant, Tempeh, Squash, and Carrot.

Why don’t you try some of our best Riesling wine to experience the signature taste of Germany? Take a look of our suggestions: Jim Barry Lodge Hill Riesling, Schieferkopf Riesling Trocken-Sec, Pewsey Vale Riesling.

Cre: Winefolly