RIESLING
Riesling represents German wine culture like no other grape variety. It grows in all of the German wine-growing regions and takes up more than 20 % of the area under vines. The early dissemination of the Riesling vine, first mentioned in the 15th century, its growth characteristics, size of grape, long ripening period and frost resistance are indicative of its relationship with wild vines
Riesling grapes, which originate in Germany's Rhine region, have sweet fruity flavors and aromas of flowers and fruits. Other characteristics of wines made form Riesling grapes include high acidity and petrol notes if aged. The character of a Riesling wine depends heavily on where it is grown because Riesling grapes are very 'terroir expressive.' Rieslings cannot be oaked like Chardonnay.
Because of both its cellar longevity and its ability to maintain varietal identity while reflecting the individuality of its terroir, Riesling may be the best of all the white wine grapes. Its homeland is Germany, where it has been cultivated since the 1400s or earlier, and where it is made into wines that run the gamut from bone dry and crisp quaffers to the complex, unctuous nectars made from Botrytis-affected, shriveled berries, individually late-picked, and known by the moniker Trockenbeerenauslese
Grape Variety
Riesling
Use in Old World
Germany, Alsace
Use in New World
US, New Zealand
Color
Almost always clear, becoming golden with age.
Aroma
Flowery with a distinct aroma often called "petrol" or "diesel".
Body
Light to Medium
Wine Making Flavors
Occasional light oak. Often made sweet.
Blended with
With Ruländer (Pinot Gris) but never in quality wines.
Other
Another great grape that doesn't get the respect it deserves. Many examples, either dry or sweet, are among the finest, most complex wines in the world
Categories:
White Wine Grapes