Riesling grape originated from Germany. In France it's base is in Alsace region that historically was part of Germany.

Riesling grape variety is capable to be made into dry wines with long longevity and along a wide spectrum to sweet luscious dessert wines. This grape produces wine with high acidity and its this characteristic that is responsible for its aging potential. Riesling from this region is light, apple-scented.

As mention before, it is also grown in France in the Alsace region, here Riesling has more alcohol and a richer texture in comparison to the one from Germany. The Australia Riesling seems more riper and fruiter. Because it needs some acidity, it is more often better from cooler areas like Clare Valley in South Australia and some parts of Western Australia like Mount Barker. Riesling is also grown in New Zealand, Austria, northern Italy, US and Canada. Some of our Canadian ice wine is made from Riesling grapes!!

 

When tasting, make sure the wine is chilled.

References: Susy Atkins. "Wine Wisdom: a complete wine-tasting course", Quadrille Publishing Limited, 2004.

Stuart Walton. "The World Encyclopedia of Wine", Lorenz Books, 1999.

TASTING NOTES
Look for scent and smell of fresh lime, apple and peach, as well biter zests. Also look for a delicate blooming floral scent. Wine from the Alsace region has a mineral quality. With wine's age, a scent of petroleum/gasoline can become evident. Some Australian wines can show it at a young age.