Gastronomer

German Riesling

 

Riesling is without question Germany's favorite grape. German Rieslings usually are light bodied with high acidity.  In the summer time or warmer weather Rieslings provides a wide range of versatility with food pairings.  Rieslings give off hints of tropical fruit, nectarine, melon and pineapple.

 

There are six (6) categories of Riesling which indicate the ripeness of the grapes. Kabinett is considered “off-dry” and is a typically ripe grape. Spätlese is riper and sweeter. Aulese is even riper so a bit sweeter. Beerenauslese, Trockenbeerenauslese and Eiswein (or ice wine), all getting sweeter, more tacky and more expensive.

 

It's a favorite in fine food pairings because of its willingness to play with a wide variety of foods, particular spicy dishes. The current Asian fusion is a great pairing with Riesling.