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One of the so-called international varietals, Riesling is a white grape grown mostly in Germany and the Alsace region of France.
Best suited for cold climates, this very aromatic grape is used to make dry, semi-sweet, sweet and sparkling white wines.
edit Aromas
Riesling's natural aromas evoke flowers, apples, pears, peaches, and tropical fruits; petroleum notes can also develop with time in the cellar. Its high levels of both acidity and sugar make it easy to pair with a large variety of foods, from fish or pork to Thai and Chinese cuisines.
This grape is highly influenced by the geography and climate of the terroir where it grows, as demonstrated by the large diversity of German Rieslings produced within the same regions.
Riesling wines can be enjoyed when young, as they exhibit fruity and aromatic aromas. However, Riesling's naturally high acidity make it suitable for extended aging.
Riesling is also used to produce "late harvest" dessert wines, when the grapes are left to overripe, with the help of "noble rot". These Rieslings are generally the most expensive.
edit Regions
This grape is thought to have originated in the Rhine region of Germany, where it has been grown since the 1400s and is still a grape of choice. It is also very successful in the French region of Alsace.
In Europe, Riesling is also grown in Austria, Italy, Russia, Switzerland and Montenegro. New World regions for Riesling include Australia, Chile, South Africa, in the Canadian province of Ontario, and in the American states of California, New York, Oregon and Washington.
edit Viticulture
Riesling vines are particularly hard-wooded and tolerant of cold weather. They bud late, which makes them well-suited to the coldest climates. Riesling is both vigorous and productive, yielding from 3 to 6 tons per acre. Its berries are small, round and soft when ripe, with tender, greenish-yellow skins.
Riesling thrives in hillside cool climates with plenty of sun expsosure and a good protection from wind. These optimal conditions can be found along the Mosel River in Germany and the Alsace region of France. They generally result in wines that are unique in their low alcohol, powerful aroma, and high extract.
edit Other names
- Donauriesling
- Gentile Aromatique Petracine
- Gewürtztraube
- Gräfenberger
- Hochheimer
- Johannisberger
- Karbacher Riesling
- Kastellberger
- Kleinriesler
- Kleinriesling
- Klingenberger
- Moselriesling
- Niederländer
- Petit Rhin
- Petit Riesling
- Pfefferl
- Reno
- Reynai
- Rheingauer
- Rheinriesling
- Riesler
- Riesling Blanc
- Riesling Renano
- Riesling Renano Bianco
- Rieslinger
- Risling Rejnski
- Rizling
- Rössling
- Rösslinger
- Weißer Riesling
- White Riesling
