Riesling Guide
From bone-dry to luscious: the most versatile white wine on the table.
Quick answer
Riesling is an aromatic white with high acidity and flavors of lime, green apple, peach and honey. It ranges from dry to very sweet. Serve at 45-50°F with spicy Asian dishes, pork or smoked fish.
What does Riesling taste like?
Riesling is intensely aromatic: citrus, green apple, apricot and white flowers, with honey in sweeter styles. Aged Rieslings can develop a distinctive petrol note. Its high acidity keeps even sweet versions refreshing.
How to tell dry from sweet
- Look for trocken (dry) on German labels.
- Kabinett and Spätlese are often off-dry to medium-sweet; Auslese and above are sweet.
- Lower alcohol (around 8-10%) often means more sweetness; 12% or more usually means drier.
- Some producers print a sweetness scale on the back label.
Where does it grow best?
- Germany: Mosel, Rheingau and Pfalz.
- Alsace, France: usually dry and fuller-bodied.
- Austria and Australia: crisp, dry styles.
- Washington State and New York's Finger Lakes: excellent value.
Best food pairings
- Thai, Indian and Szechuan dishes (off-dry styles tame the heat)
- Pork chops and roast pork
- Smoked trout and salmon
- Fruit tarts (with sweeter styles)
Ordering takeout?
Use our wine pairing tool to match wine to spicy dishes.
Riesling FAQ
Is Riesling always sweet?
No. Riesling ranges from bone-dry to dessert-sweet. Look for trocken or check the alcohol level.
Why does Riesling go well with spicy food?
A touch of sweetness and lower alcohol soothe chili heat, while high acidity keeps the pairing fresh.
Why does my Riesling smell like petrol?
Aged Riesling can develop a natural compound called TDN that smells like petrol or kerosene. Many fans love it.