Riesling

Originating in the Rhine region of Germany, cultivated as far back as the 1400s, Riesling is an aromatic grape variety displaying distinctive floral & citrus-like aromas as well as high acidity. Much loved by wine makers and wine connoisseurs alike for its crisp flavour and defined palate structure, Riesling was the most planted white grape in Australia until the early 1990's when Chardonnay increased in popularity. Its debutant years were those of the 1970's when Australia experienced a period known as the 'white grape boom'. You may also recall the popularity of "Hunter River Rieslings" in the Hunter Valley. This was later revealed to actually be Semillon, but due to the popularity of Riesling at the time it was referred to as such.

Riesling wines are usually varietally pure and seldom oaked. Well suited to colder climate locations, Riesling vines bud late, are hard-wooded and are highly "terroir- expressive" (the character of the wine is particularly influenced by where it is grown). Australian Rieslings are well known for their citrus blossom aromas and flavours, with the better examples finishing dry and full in flavour, in comparison to New Zealand Riesling that are renowned for being lighter and more delicate.

Riesling wines are often consumed young & fresh, when they are fruity & aromatic, and have a crisp taste. However, it is one of the few white wines that has the ability to age very well. With naturally high acidity and comparable low alcohol, Riesling wines retain an enviable freshness which many other varieties lack making them suitable for extended aging, showing secondary honey, toast and kerosene characters.

For a long time for whatever reason, good Riesling has been notoriously undervalued when compared with other white varieties. Today, while we are certainly paying more for it, Riesling remains one of the best value wine varieties on the market.