Riesling

There is general agreement that this is an ancient German grape. Earliest references to this varietal found are in the Rheingau in 1435. It is unquestionably one of the world’s greatest white wine grapes. Has been described as a ‘terroir conduit’. Can make particularly long ageing wines. It has many manifestations from steely dry to very sweet. Germany is unquestionably the worlds star producer of this varietal.  Bottling protocol for German Riesling, Mosel and its tributaries use green bottles, the Rhine River regions Rheinhessen, Rheingau & Pfalz use Brown bottles.

When vinified It has a myriad of expressions depending on where it is grown. Classic references:  Peaches, apricots, floral, honey, lime, spicy, flintiness, notes of kerosene (associated with ageing and warmer growing areas). The acidity is normally medium to high. 

Riesling is the most planted grape variety in Germany with 22,434 ha planted. It has been commented that ‘fine German wine’ will have as many layers of flavours as a fine Bordeaux and as a varietal it has an exceptional ability to communicate terroir. It has a great capacity to develop complexity with long ageing greater than Chardonnay. Most planted white variety in Alsace 3,382ha. In Austria it would be the second most planted white grape, Grüner Veltliner being the most planted. In Australia it is the 5^th most planted grape with the most famous region being the Barossa Valley and within the Barossa the cooler regions of Clare Valley and Eden Valley. It continues to grow in popularity in New Zealand.

Riesling's vibrant acidity along with its fruity & floral notes makes it a perfect match for enhancing and balancing the flavours of spicy dishes from cuisines like Thai, Indian, and Szechuan.

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