Riesling
Grape Varieties

Grape Varieties

Riesling

Riesling is one of the world’s most expressive white grape varieties, celebrated for its bright acidity, aromatic intensity, and wide stylistic range. Originating in Germany’s Rhine Valley, it thrives in cool climates, producing wines that span from dry and mineral to richly sweet. Classic aromas include lime, green apple, and white peach, evolving with age into honey, petrol, and dried apricot. Elegant and long-lived, Riesling perfectly balances freshness, fruit, and terroir expression.
Origin
Origin
Germany · Rhine Valley
Notable Regions
Notable Regions
Germany · Mosel, Rheingau, Pfalz, Nahe, France · Alsace, Austria · Wachau, Kamptal, Australia · Clare Valley, New Zealand · Marlborough, Central Otago
Popular Styles
Popular Styles
Mosel Riesling, Rheingau Riesling, Alsace Riesling, Clare Valley Riesling, Eden Valley Riesling
Ageing Potential
Ageing Potential
25+ Years
Serving Temperature
Serving Temperature
Best enjoyed at 8-10°C
Alcohol
Alcohol
8.0-13.5% vol.
Glass
Glass
Riesling

Taste Profile

Light
Body
Bold
Soft
Acidity
Acidic
Dry
Sweetness
Sweet

Main Flavors

Primary (Grape-derived)

LimeGreen AppleWhite PeachJasmine

Secondary (Winemaking-derived)

Wet StoneSlateHoneycombPetroleum

Tertiary (Ageing-derived)

HoneyDried ApricotMarmaladeBeeswax

Color

Young
Mature
Aged
Old

Food Pairing

General Pairing Principles
Seafood Spicy Cuisine (Mild Heat) Aromatic/Spice-Driven Dishes Umami-Driven Dishes
Asian Pairing Suggestions
Japanese Tempura Kimchi Pancakes Thai Coconut-Based Curry Vietnamese Lemongrass Shrimp Chinese Steamed Fish Sushi & Sashimi
ChiliChili Chili
Pairs well with moderately spiced dishes, where lively acidity keeps flavors bright and balanced. Avoid very spicy food, as acidity may amplify heat.

Filters

93
Tim Atkin
91
James Suckling
91
Descorchados
91
Vinous
Luigi Bosca Riesling

Become a Wine Expert

Learn About Wine

Vineyards of Rongzi Estate in Xiangning County, Linfen City, Shanxi Province

China’s Wine Regions: Terroir, Climate, and a Growing Global Recognition

A comprehensive guide to China’s wine regions, exploring terroir, climate, grape varieties, and the structural realities shaping modern Chinese wine.
Woman walking among vineyard rows in Thailand, where tropical climate and adaptive viticulture shape wine production.

Thailand Wine Regions and Wine Map

Thailand has emerged as one of the most technically innovative wine-producing countries. This guide explores its wine regions, climate adaptations, and distinctive tropical wine styles.
Couple enjoying a shared meal and conversation over glasses of wine in a restaurant setting

Choosing Wine for Conversation, Comfort, and Shared Moments

Wine influences shared moments through texture, balance, and ease. This guide explores how to choose wine that supports conversation, comfort, and connection across settings.