Knowledge CentreGrape Variety in Focus

Riesling

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Riesling

Riesling

1. What It Is

Riesling is a white grape that makes some of the most aromatic and refreshing wines in the world.
It comes from Germany, where it grows along the Rhine and Mosel rivers, but it is also planted in Austria, France (Alsace), Australia, New Zealand, and North America.
Riesling wines can be dry, slightly sweet, or very sweet, but they are always high in acidity and full of flavour.


2. What It Tastes Like

Riesling is known for its bright, fruity aromas — think lime, green apple, and peach, with hints of flowers and honey as it ages.
The wines are usually light to medium in body and have a crisp, clean finish.
Older Rieslings can develop a unique petrol or toasty note that wine lovers admire.


3. Where It Grows

RegionCountryTypical Style
MoselGermanyLight, slightly sweet, very fresh
WachauAustriaDry, fruity, and mineral
AlsaceFranceFull-bodied, dry, aromatic
Clare & Eden ValleysAustraliaVery dry, lime and citrus flavours
MarlboroughNew ZealandCrisp, fruity, and floral
Finger Lakes / Washington / CanadaUSA & CanadaFresh, balanced, sometimes off-dry

4. How It’s Made

Riesling is usually fermented in stainless steel to keep its bright fruit and freshness.
Most are unoaked, meaning they don’t taste of wood.
Sweet Rieslings are made from late-picked or frozen grapes, which gives them rich honey and apricot flavours.


5. What It Goes With

Riesling pairs beautifully with many foods because of its lively acidity and touch of sweetness.
It goes especially well with:

  • Spicy dishes (like Thai or Indian curries)
  • White meats and seafood
  • Soft cheeses or fruity desserts

6. Quick Facts

FeatureDetail
ColourWhite
AcidityHigh
BodyLight to medium
SweetnessDry to very sweet
AlcoholUsually 11–13 %
AgeingCan last for decades
Main FlavoursLime, apple, peach, honey, mineral

7. Summary

Riesling is a versatile and expressive white wine that shows the character of where it’s grown.
Whether crisp and dry or rich and sweet, it always tastes bright, fruity, and full of life.
Its balance of freshness and flavour makes it one of the most loved white wines in the world.

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