February 20, 2025 at 6:36 PM PST
Riesling often gets a bad rap for being cloyingly sweet and devoid of intricate flavors. But those who’ve had the pleasure of enjoying the spectrum of tastes the grape offers know differently. Yes, the Riesling grapes can be sweeter than other whites, but that doesn’t mean they lack complexity. The grape is known to present a smattering of unique flavors, each amplified by the land and climate where it’s grown.
The best bottles offer a variety of aromas that range from juicy and sweet to zesty, crisp, and even funky. When made well, those flavors work in tandem to present a wine that’s just as versatile. Peachy aromas with a touch of honey are perfect for tempering spicy dishes, while a crisp green apple and lemon palate offset by petrol can be ideal for interesting charcuterie. Riesling is also one of the few white wines that age beautifully, inheriting a distinct nutty aroma that’s perfect for cheese boards and desserts.
The word of Riesling extends far beyond sweet, and the bottles below prove it. Keep reading to see the best Riesling wines to sip now and into spring.
The Mosel region in Germany is one of the finest for Riesling wines, and this bottle is sheer proof. It displays all of the classic notes of the region, such as hints of petrol, lush stone fruits, and light minerality, and some unexpected flavors like white floral blossoms. The combination makes for a beautiful mix of aromas and tastes, while the age adds complexity.
The late harvest is the key to this bottle's unique flavor profile. With more than half of the grapes affected with Botrytis, it has a sweetness that's as intricate as it is delicate—think tropical fruits like papaya mingling with orange marmalade and subtle hints of elderflower. It can be sipped on its own or paired with rich cheeses and semi-sweet desserts.
When aged, Rieslings can exhibit a deep and nutty flavor profile. The result is often a wine of golden color with enticing and complex flavors. This bottle has both and is well-balanced with nice citrus notes for bright zestiness and hints of warm marzipan that round it out.
On the nose of this Riesling, you'll get a pretty perfumed aroma that's indicative of the grape's sweetness. But hailing from Alsace, the wine is beautifully balanced with notes of wet stones and sharp minerality. Together, the flavors deliver a light and elegant sip with a finish that's refreshing and bone-dry.
Some of the best expressions of Riesling are found in a white blend like this one that also features Pinot Blanc, Gewürztraminer, and Müller-Thurgau. Despite being a blend, the wine is Riesling-driven and relies on the best elements from the other varietals to add complexity. Together they create a symphony of juicy and aromatic flavors, leaving behind a touch of sweetness at the end of each sip.
This Riesling blend brings together some of the best white grapes in the Alsace region and showcases their unique flavor profiles. Despite the sweeter grapes, the palate is well-balanced with ripe orchard fruits and tropical offerings and has a slightly dry finish. It's perfect for dishes packed with spices and savory herbs but can be just as tasty with delicate fish and vegetables.
If you're looking for an easygoing bottle for a weeknight meal, you can't go wrong with this Riesling. It's full of juicy and bright citrus flavors, like lime and grapefruit, but has a nice lean finish that makes it lovely to sip.
Austrian Rieslings, like this bottle, tend to pack a punch of fresh citrus notes from the juice to the fruit's zest. It gives the wine a bright and lively flavor and vibrant acidity. But don't think for a second it's going to be a sugar bomb. The terroir in Austria adds a light sea-salt smoke to the wine, making it an interesting and unique sip.
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