Riesling is a versatile and highly aromatic white wine grape variety that produces some of the finest wines in the world. Known for its vibrant acidity, floral aromas, and ability to age gracefully, Riesling thrives in various climates and terroirs, resulting in a wide range of styles from bone dry to lusciously sweet. Here are some of the best Riesling wines from renowned regions around the globe.
Germany
Germany is the heartland of Riesling, producing some of the most celebrated examples of this varietal.
- Egon Müller Scharzhofberger Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA)
- Region: Mosel
- Characteristics: Exceptionally rare and sweet, with intense flavors of honey, apricot, and exotic spices. High acidity balances the sweetness, making it ideal for long aging.
- Notable Aspect: One of the most prestigious and expensive Rieslings in the world.
- Dr. Loosen Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Spätlese
- Region: Mosel
- Characteristics: Medium-sweet with flavors of ripe peaches, tropical fruits, and a distinctive spiciness from the Würzgarten (spice garden) vineyard.
- Notable Aspect: The vineyard’s red volcanic soil imparts unique flavors and complexity.
- Keller G-Max Riesling
- Region: Rheinhessen
- Characteristics: Dry with a perfect balance of acidity and fruitiness, featuring notes of citrus, green apple, and minerals.
- Notable Aspect: Often regarded as one of the top dry Rieslings from Germany, produced in limited quantities.
France
Alsace, located in northeastern France, is another top region for high-quality Riesling.
- Domaine Trimbach Clos Ste Hune Riesling
- Region: Alsace
- Characteristics: Dry and full-bodied, with flavors of lime, green apple, and stone fruit, complemented by a pronounced minerality.
- Notable Aspect: Known for its exceptional aging potential and considered one of the finest Rieslings from Alsace.
- Zind-Humbrecht Riesling Clos Windsbuhl
- Region: Alsace
- Characteristics: Rich and complex, with flavors of citrus, white flowers, and a chalky minerality. Often shows a slightly smoky character.
- Notable Aspect: Produced from biodynamically farmed vineyards, reflecting the purity of the terroir.
United States
The United States, particularly Washington State and New York’s Finger Lakes region, produces outstanding Rieslings.
- Eroica Riesling
- Region: Washington State
- Characteristics: Off-dry with vibrant acidity, featuring flavors of mandarin orange, lime, and a hint of minerality.
- Notable Aspect: A collaboration between Chateau Ste. Michelle and German winemaker Dr. Loosen, showcasing the best of both worlds.
- Dr. Konstantin Frank Dry Riesling
- Region: Finger Lakes, New York
- Characteristics: Dry with crisp acidity and flavors of green apple, citrus, and a touch of slate minerality.
- Notable Aspect: One of the pioneers of vinifera grape growing in the Finger Lakes, producing consistently high-quality Rieslings.
Australia
Australia, particularly the Clare Valley and Eden Valley, is known for its distinctive Riesling wines.
- Grosset Polish Hill Riesling
- Region: Clare Valley, South Australia
- Characteristics: Bone dry with intense citrus, lime, and white flower notes, complemented by a steely minerality and racy acidity.
- Notable Aspect: Recognized as one of Australia’s top Rieslings, with excellent aging potential.
- Pewsey Vale The Contours Riesling
- Region: Eden Valley, South Australia
- Characteristics: Dry and complex, with flavors of lemon, lime, and honey, evolving into richer, toasty notes with age.
- Notable Aspect: A single-vineyard Riesling that develops beautifully over time, reflecting the unique Eden Valley terroir.
Austria
Austria’s cool climate and diverse terroirs contribute to the production of exceptional Rieslings.
- F.X. Pichler Dürnsteiner Kellerberg Riesling Smaragd
- Region: Wachau
- Characteristics: Dry with intense fruit flavors of apricot, peach, and citrus, underpinned by a vibrant acidity and mineral backbone.
- Notable Aspect: “Smaragd” denotes the highest quality level in the Wachau, indicating a rich and concentrated wine.
- Prager Steinriegl Riesling Federspiel
- Region: Wachau
- Characteristics: Medium-bodied and dry, with crisp acidity and flavors of green apple, lime, and a pronounced minerality.
- Notable Aspect: “Federspiel” indicates a lighter style than Smaragd, but still showcases the finesse and elegance of Wachau Riesling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, riesling is a versatile and expressive varietal that thrives in various regions worldwide, each imparting its unique characteristics to the wine. From the lush, sweet wines of Germany to the crisp, dry offerings of Australia and the United States, there is a Riesling to suit every palate. Exploring these top Riesling wines from around the world will provide a delightful journey through the diverse styles and flavors this exceptional grape has to offer.
