NOT YOUR NANNA’S RIESLING
This varietal is finally shaking its sugary image and we are here for it!
The mere mention of riesling might conjure flashbacks to sickly sweet drops (often from a cask!) made popular in the ’70s and ’80s. But this white wine varietal has come along way since it first came into fashion. What’s really great about riesling is its versatility – some are sweet, while others are bone-dry. That’s all well and good, but if you’re not sure whether you’re ordering sweet or dry, the anything-could-happen factor might mean you give it a wide berth. The key is knowing what to look for on the wine list, and it all starts with region.
Most Aussie rieslings tend to be dry, unless marked otherwise. Young rieslings should be light and refreshing with high acidity and a lovely floral aroma. As it ages, the wine will gain balance and density and become more intense and complex over time. The best rieslings can easily be cellared for decades, making them the ideal wine for serious collectors. So the next time you pick up a bottle, buy a few more to put away and drink in 5-10 years; you will be rewarded.
PAIRING
The versatility and high acidity of this varietal means it can be paired with most foods. Try a bottle with Japanese or Thai takeaway.
BAROSSA BEAUTY Filled with lemon flavours, the Fat Cat Riesling finishes clean and dry. Great for pairing with chicken salad and light cheeses. Perfect for current drinking but also rewards years of cellaring.
SIMPLY PERFECT Taylors St Andrews is known for its exquisite quality and premium taste. This riesling is no exception. Dry with notes of lime, citrus and tropical fruit and high acidity.
CRISP & FRESH From the Clare Valley, this premium riesling from Mockingbird Hill is fresh with crisp apple and zesty citrus aromas. Well balanced by natural acidity and a dry, crsip finish.
AROMATIC & DELICATE This Henschke Julius Riesling has the most gorgeous citrus blossom aromas. Stunning now, but will develop beautifully for a decade at least.
ELEGANT & REFINED Western Australia may be famous for its lovely chardonnays, but there are some fantastic rieslings coming out of the state as well. This Howard Park Museum release is a fine example.
EDEN VALLEY CLASSIC Leonay is one of Australia’s classic rieslings. A wine of great power and elegance with tremendous varietal definition, this one can be enjoyed young but will improve in the bottle for many years.
CONSISTENTLY GOOD From a region famed for red wines, this Wynns Coonawarra riesling proves that Coonawarra also produces exceptional whites. Well balanced and great value for money.