Riesling is an old, noble grape variety that prefers cool climates with good sun exposure, producing an elegant and elite white wine with an unmistakable aroma of fruit and hydrocarbons. Its distinct freshness allows it to retain its youthfulness even after several years of ageing, making it one of the most durable wines in the world. Originally from the lands along the Moselle and Rhine rivers in south-west Germany, it has since spread beyond the borders into Alsace, Austria and Italy. As a result, it has earned the recognition and respect of the greatest wine lovers and has carved out a place for itself among the world's great white wines.
Riesling is an old, noble grape variety that prefers cool climates with good sun exposure, producing an elegant and elite white wine with an unmistakable aroma of fruit and hydrocarbons. Its distinct freshness allows it to retain its youthfulness even after several years of ageing, making it one of the most durable wines in the world. Originally from the lands along the Moselle and Rhine rivers in south-west Germany, it has since spread beyond the borders into Alsace, Austria and Italy. As a result, it has earned the recognition and respect of the greatest wine lovers and has carved out a place for itself among the world's great white wines.
Riesling is a noble white grape variety of ancient German origin, which produces a fruity white wine with an unmistakable personality that rivals Chardonnay in terms of international prestige. It develops its best aromatic qualities in cold regions and on steep slopes, which is why it is so popular in Germany, especially in the Mosel Valley and the hilly Rheingau area, as well as in the French region of Alsace and throughout northern Italy. It is in fact extraordinarily common in regions such as Trentino South Tyrol, Friuli Venezia Giulia and even Piedmont.
Thanks to its remarkable freshness, which is counterbalanced by a residual sugar content of varying amounts, Riesling white wine can be extremely durable, developing an extraordinary elegance and aromatic richness over the years and decades, featuring unmistakable notes of hydrocarbons and fruit, including peach, apricot and citrus. It has a straw-yellow colour with greenish reflections and pairs well with fish dishes, shellfish, steamed vegetables and starters of cured meats, sliced meats, fried food and cheeses. It is also worth trying in combination with risotto!
While it is certain that it is of German origin, as the various historical testimonies from the 9th century suggest, it is not clear which area gave rise to this particular grape. The most widely accepted theory is that the Rhine and Moselle areas gave rise to this grape variety, which then spread, first throughout southern Germany, and then also found a home in French Alsace and Alpine Italy. Here it was crossed with other grapes and created interesting hybrids such as Muller Thurgau and Incrocio Manzoni.
Germany is a cold land with little sunshine, but rich in charm and history. It has always been considered the home of beer, and the world of wine has always taken a back seat. However, just by trying a Riesling wine you can truly understand that this nation hides one of the most prestigious treasures of the wine scene. The climate is decidedly cold and alternates between sunny days and freezing nights, with large temperature variations.
The Moselle area, which takes its name from the long river that flows through Germany, France and Luxembourg, perfectly represents the most sought-after Riesling characteristics. It is here that the most noble and prestigious Mosel white wines are born. They are both refined and elegant, in the dry and sweet versions, and are characterised by the typical aromatic bouquet of citrus fruits, sweet spices and that unmistakable note of hydrocarbons. The taste is intense, refined and complex, with a freshness that allows it to be aged for several decades.
With a colour that ranges from greenish yellow for the fresher versions to amber/gold for the more mature and sweeter ones, it is characterised by a very typical and exciting aromatic profile. On the nose, it could be mistaken for an aromatic white wine, given the intensity and complexity of its aromas. However, if you let it flow in the glass, you will notice that its aromas are fine and elegant, with hints of citrus fruit, peach and apricot, aromatic spices, and mineral and sometimes even herbaceous tones.
The real distinguishing feature that makes it truly original is the pleasant hydrocarbon note, which is veiled but well integrated, giving it a unique touch of class. It offers personality and elegance on the palate, supported by a fresh, mineral foundation. The structure is clean and always contained, never robust or warm, but juicy and with great personality.
Given its fine qualities and its different tones of sweetness, it is a versatile white wine that can be served with a surprising variety of dishes. The drier, less complex versions can be paired with delicious aperitifs, fish and vegetable starters or velvety soups. The best Riesling pairings for the more structured versions are those with more complex courses, such as well-seasoned fish dishes, stewed white meats, sliced meats, medium-aged cheeses, fried fish and even spicy ethnic cuisine.
On Callmewine you can find a varied and rich selection of Italian, French and German Riesling wines at the best prices. Allow yourself to be guided by the detailed characteristics and combinations of each product, and select the perfect wine for your dinner.