Everything About Riesling Grape

Spelling Icon "REE-sling"
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Description Icon Riesling Description

Origin: Rhine region, Germany
History: Riesling is a white grape variety that originated in the Rhine region of Germany. The first recorded mention of Riesling dates back to 1435, when a German count purchased several Riesling vines. Over the centuries, Riesling has become one of the world's most celebrated white grape varieties, known for its aromatic complexity and ability to produce wines ranging from bone-dry to lusciously sweet. Its high acidity and ability to reflect terroir have made it a favorite among winemakers and wine enthusiasts alike.
Appearance: Small, round berries with a greenish-yellow hue, often developing a golden tint as they ripen.
Growing Traits: Riesling thrives in cooler climates and is known for its hardiness and resistance to frost. It ripens late in the season, allowing for the development of complex flavors. The grape's high acidity makes it suitable for a range of wine styles, from dry to sweet, and contributes to its exceptional aging potential.
Food Pairing Icon Food Pairing
Riesling's high acidity and range of sweetness levels make it an incredibly versatile wine for food pairings. Dry Rieslings complement seafood, poultry, and dishes with citrus-based sauces. Off-dry and sweeter Rieslings are excellent matches for spicy cuisines, such as Thai or Indian, as the sweetness balances the heat. Additionally, Riesling pairs well with pork, duck, and a variety of cheeses, including blue cheese and aged Gouda.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Light to medium-bodied with a crisp and refreshing profile, often exhibiting a vibrant acidity. Ranges from bone-dry to lusciously sweet, showcasing versatility in winemaking styles. Negligible tannin levels, as it is a white grape variety primarily used in white wine production. High acidity, contributing to its crispness and excellent aging potential. Moderate alcohol content, generally ranging from 8% to 12%, enhancing its light and approachable nature.
Green apple Taste Note Green apple
Citrus Taste Note Citrus
Peach Taste Note Peach
Apricot Taste Note Apricot
Petrol Taste Note Petrol
Honey Taste Note Honey
Jasmine Taste Note Jasmine
Mineral Taste Note Mineral
Riesling wines are known for their aromatic complexity and vibrant acidity. Common tasting notes include green apple, citrus fruits like lemon and lime, stone fruits such as peach and apricot, and floral hints of jasmine. A distinctive 'petrol' or mineral note often develops with age, adding to the wine's intrigue. Sweeter styles may also exhibit honeyed nuances.
Regions
[object Object] Region
Germany
•Mosel
•Rheingau
•Pfalz
•Nahe
[object Object] Region
France
•Alsace
[object Object] Region
Austria
•Wachau
•Kremstal
•Kamptal
[object Object] Region
Australia
•Clare Valley
•Eden Valley
[object Object] Region
United States
•Finger Lakes
•Washington State
•Michigan
Notable Wines and Producers
Egon Müller Scharzhofberger Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese
•Egon Müller
Trimbach Clos Ste. Hune Riesling
•Maison Trimbach
Grosset Polish Hill Riesling
•Grosset Wines
Dr. Loosen Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese
•Dr. Loosen
Hugel Riesling
•Famille Hugel

Riesling FAQ

Rhine region, Germany

Riesling has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Riesling is Moderate to Light bodied.

Riesling has a dryness level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Riesling is Semi-Sweet.

Rhine region, Germany

Riesling is grown in Germany (Mosel, Rheingau, Pfalz, Nahe)France (Alsace)Austria (Wachau, Kremstal, Kamptal)Australia (Clare Valley, Eden Valley)United States (Finger Lakes, Washington State, Michigan).

Riesling wines are known for their aromatic complexity and vibrant acidity. Common tasting notes include green apple, citrus fruits like lemon and lime, stone fruits such as peach and apricot, and floral hints of jasmine. A distinctive 'petrol' or mineral note often develops with age, adding to the wine's intrigue. Sweeter styles may also exhibit honeyed nuances.

Riesling's high acidity and range of sweetness levels make it an incredibly versatile wine for food pairings. Dry Rieslings complement seafood, poultry, and dishes with citrus-based sauces. Off-dry and sweeter Rieslings are excellent matches for spicy cuisines, such as Thai or Indian, as the sweetness balances the heat. Additionally, Riesling pairs well with pork, duck, and a variety of cheeses, including blue cheese and aged Gouda.

Riesling wines are known for their aromatic complexity and vibrant acidity. Common tasting notes include green apple, citrus fruits like lemon and lime, stone fruits such as peach and apricot, and floral hints of jasmine. A distinctive 'petrol' or mineral note often develops with age, adding to the wine's intrigue. Sweeter styles may also exhibit honeyed nuances.