Sweet and Dry American Rieslings

April 2023
Written By: 
James Ginley
Photographs by: 
courtesy of the wineries

Light, Fruity, and Just Right for Springtime

B Lovely Late Harvest Riesling 2021 
Walla Walla Columbia Valley, Washington   $14
“Late Harvest” means the grapes are picked late in the season, so the juice is concentrated and the wine will be sweeter and richer. Aromas of ripe peach and apple, with bold flavors of apricot and citrus fruits combine for a mouthwatering taste. Crisp and lively, with a zesty finish. A ‘Best Buy’ from Wine Enthusiast.

Biltmore Estate Riesling 2021
Biltmore Estate, Asheville, North Carolina   $15
The Winery at Biltmore Estate began making wines in 1985, and now has dozens of reds, whites, and sparkling wines of many different styles. This popular Riesling is well balanced and fruit forward, with notes of apricot and citrus throughout. A spritzy finish makes it easy to pair with lighter dishes.

Kudos Riesling 2020
Willamette Valley, Oregon   $19
Kudos produces Pinot Noir like most of Willamette Valley, but it also has created this succulent, dry Riesling, with 13.7% alcohol. There is a fragrance of crisp apple and pear, with tangy apricot and peach showing on the palate. Lemony acidity and a tart finish can make tangy chicken and spicy shrimp dishes taste so good!

Black Girl Magic Riesling 2020  
Central Coast, California   $23  
On the nose, honey, apricot, tangerine and jasmine are accompanied by tropical flavors of citrus, guava, honeysuckle and pineapple. They all combine for a slightly sweet, but complex and well-structured wine with 12.5 % alcohol.  Pairs easily with spicy seafood or chicken dishes. This wine earned a Gold Medal at the Monterey International Wine Competition in 2021.

Wagner Dry Riesling 2020
Finger Lakes, New York   $18
Wagner started in 1979, near Seneca Lake, in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York. This outstanding example of the Alsatian style was fermented in stainless steel. It’s a dry Riesling, with aromatics of apple, peach, and white flowers. The taste is fruit-driven, with hints of tart apple, peach, and white flowers. It offers balanced acidity, a lengthy finish, and 11% alcohol.

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