Originating in Germany in the 1400s, Riesling was the preferred drink of German nobility. It is commonly characterized as light bodied with aromas of citrus, stone fruit, and white flowers. Though many expect a sweet taste, Riesling can also be dry, particularly those grown in Germany.
What makes Riesling unique is that it benefits from aging if stored in the right conditions, due to the high acidity levels in the wine. Riesling is also used to propagate other white wine varieties such as Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc.
To help kick off Riesling Day on March 13th, here are six locally made BC Riesling wines to help you celebrate.
1. TIME Riesling 2018, $24.99 online or at Save-On-Foods. This white wine has mineral aromas of lime, lemon zest, and stone fruit echo on the palate. Fresh, crisp acidity is balanced with natural residual sugar.
2. Free Form 2019 Organic Riesling, $34.99 online or at the winery’s store in Summerland, BC. Made from certified organic Riesling from Garnet Valley Ranch, the grapes were fermented in clay amphora with native yeast and then aged in stainless steel. This mouth-watering wine has an acidic, plush texture, balanced with delicate tropical candied fruit.
3. Monte Creek Winery 2020 Living Land Riesling, $21.99 Purchase this wine in Vancouver at 1st Avenue Liquor Store, Liberty Merchants Point Grey, Value on Liquor Store, and Vij's Lantern. In Victoria, find it at at 4 Mile Liquor Colwood, James Bay Spirit Merchants, Sobeys-TF-Tuscany Village, Spinnakers LRS, and Vintage Spirits. You’ll also find this wine at Little Mountain Liquor Store in Chilliwack. Sourced from a single vineyard site in the Similkameen Valley which sits on an old stony riverbed, this site often has excellent flavour intensity early in ripening, which means it can be picked at lower sugar levels to produce the style of Riesling Monte Creek Winery is known for – fresh acidity, a balanced palate, and a citrusy flavour profile. NOTE: Monte Creek Winery’s award winning 2019 Riesling ($21.99) can be purchased online.
4. Chronos 2020 Riesling, $28.99 online or at Save-On-Foods. This white wine has aromas of white flower and honey-crisp apple that tantalize your palate with jasmine and lime.
5. Narrative 2018 Riesling, $34.99 online or at the winery’s store in Summerland, BC. This Riesling came from a warmer site in Osoyoos and therefore was hand harvested early for retention of juicy acidity and bright fruit flavours. Native fermentation took place in stainless steel followed by 8 months of ageing in concrete egg-shaped tanks.
6. Evolve 2020 Riesling, $22.99 online or at Save-On-Foods. Built to quench, it’s zesty and vivacious. A wine lovingly crafted to be shared and enjoyed with your circle. This wine craves a view, good food, and great company. Aromas of white flower and honey-crisp apple that tantalize your palate with jasmine and lime.