Riesling: A world-class grape variety
The Riesling grape variety: Origin and significance
The Riesling grape variety is one of the finest white wines and is often referred to as the ‘white queen’. Its history goes back a long way – the Riesling vine was first documented in the 15th century. It is still particularly important in German-speaking countries today. It is by no means an exaggeration to describe Riesling as Germany's national grape, as there is hardly any other country where it is so deeply rooted in the wine culture.
Riesling grows in cool climate regions
The Riesling grape is grown in the Rhineland, but also in other regions with a temperate climate, such as Switzerland and Alsace. The fact that Riesling grows in cool climates is not a disadvantage – on the contrary: its late budding protects it from late frost, while its long ripening period allows complex aromas and a fresh acidity to develop.
International distribution of the Riesling grape variety
In addition to Germany and Switzerland, Riesling wines can also be found in France, Luxembourg and Moldova, as well as in the New World in New Zealand, Australia and California. The cultivation of the noble Riesling grape has been adapted to a wide variety of climatic zones, resulting in fascinating regional characteristics. Grown in New Zealand, Australia and California, Riesling demonstrates its versatility.
Remarkable Rieslings are also produced in Switzerland. The climatic conditions, especially at higher altitudes, allow elegant, acid-driven wines with regional character to develop.
Riesling wines: variety and types
Top class among white wines
Riesling is undoubtedly one of the top white wines. The grape variety impresses with its versatility, elegance and aroma. It produces wines that range from delicate and light to concentrated and noble sweet selections. Riesling is particularly appreciated for its ability to clearly reflect the terroir – i.e. the soil, climate and location. Hardly any other white grape variety shows such precise differences depending on its origin.
Another reason for Riesling's high esteem is the remarkable ageing potential of many Riesling wines. While fresh, dry Rieslings are ideal for early consumption, mature wines develop complex aromas of honey, wax or petroleum over many years without losing their freshness. This makes them particularly interesting for connoisseurs who appreciate the ageing process of a wine.
Riesling also enjoys a high reputation internationally. It is successfully cultivated not only in Germany and Austria, but also in France, Australia, New Zealand and the USA. Its stylistic range – from dry to noble sweet – makes Riesling one of the most versatile white wines in the world. Whether as a soloist or a versatile accompaniment to food, Riesling maintains its place at the top with confident consistency.
Dry, sweet or noble sweet varieties
Riesling wines cover an impressive range of styles. Whether fruity, sweet and easy to drink or dry with complex minerality – anything is possible. In fact, Riesling has long had a dusty image, especially in Germany, because the easy-to-drink wine was preferred by older, tradition-conscious people.
The renaissance of Riesling
The change in image
This accessible wine used to be preferred by older, tradition-conscious people. Today, Riesling is experiencing a renaissance. Its former label as ‘old-fashioned’ is a thing of the past. In addition, some German winemakers are breaking new ground, creating modern styles and reaching an international audience.
German winemakers: new paths and dry white wines
Riesling, as Germany's national grape, means more than just its origin. It is an expression of cultural achievement. It has a long tradition in Germany, with a grape variety that can produce both delicately tart summer wines and world-class wines for ageing.
Some German winemakers are now breaking new ground and producing dry white wine from Riesling. This style is now in high demand, especially among an international community of wine lovers who appreciate its exceptional quality. The balance of acidity, fruit and finesse elevates Riesling to the world elite of white wines. The quality of Riesling wines can be differentiated by designations such as Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese, Beerenauslese or Trockenbeerenauslese. Particularly noble sweet varieties are produced by harvesting overripe or noble rot grapes, whose must is characterised by a particularly high sugar content.
When the grapes are frozen, a highly concentrated must with a high sugar content is produced, as is known from ice wine.
Riesling grapes also produced for ice wine
The creation of ice wine
The Riesling grape has become particularly popular for ice wine. If the grapes are to be used for ice wine, they are left on the vine until the first frost. Only when the grapes are frozen does a highly concentrated juice develop during pressing. This wine is rare, precious and intense.
Aromatics and style: What makes Riesling special
Typical aromas of Riesling
What is typical of a Riesling? The spectrum ranges from citrus fruits, apple and peach to floral notes and mineral and petrol nuances in more mature wines. This diversity strongly reflects its origins – from the slate soils of the Moselle to the loess soils of the Rheingau.
Culinary combinations with Riesling wine
Riesling in gastronomy
Riesling offers an enormous range of culinary possibilities. Thanks to its acidity, it goes well with dishes that are high in fat or exotic spices.
These combinations demonstrate the versatility of this grape variety:
- Sushi, sashimi or fried prawns with lime
- Poultry with orange reduction
- Goat's cheese with honey and thyme
- Smoked salmon with horseradish
- Chinese cuisine with sweet and sour elements
- Apple strudel or lemon tart with a sweet Riesling
Whether light summer dishes or hearty menus – Riesling hits almost every culinary note.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Riesling
Is Riesling dry or sweet?
Riesling can be both dry and sweet. The spectrum ranges from bone dry to off-dry to noble sweet. The style depends on the vinification and the desired profile of the winemaker.
What is special about Riesling?
Riesling is considered one of the most aromatic and age-worthy white wine varieties in the world. Its ability to accurately reflect its origin, climate and soil makes it particularly interesting for terroir lovers.
Why is Riesling called the ‘king of wines’?
Due to its versatility, elegance, ageing potential and broad spectrum of aromas, Riesling is often referred to as the ‘king of white wines’ or even the ‘king of wines’. Among experts, it is considered the benchmark for top white wines.
Is Riesling wine always dry?
No. Riesling comes in all levels of sweetness. While some regions, such as Alsace, tend to produce dry wines, others focus on off-dry or sweet varieties. Diversity is one of the hallmarks of Riesling.
Is Riesling sweet or dry?
Both are possible. The decision between sweet or dry depends on the style of the winery, the region and the characteristics of the vintage. Labels such as “dry”, “semi-dry” or “sweet” provide information about this.
What is typical of a Riesling?
Typical characteristics include a pronounced fruitiness, lively acidity, low alcohol content and good ageing potential. In addition, Riesling reflects the differences in terroir like no other grape variety.