This noble white grape variety originates from Germany but is actually used to make wine all over the world.

In Estonia, as well as elsewhere, there is a common belief that Riesling = sweet, fruity wine. In reality, the final character of a wine, including Riesling, depends on the winemaker’s vision regarding sweetness. Yes, the Rieslings available in Estonian retail tend to be on the sweeter and simpler side, but globally, the majority of Rieslings are made as dry wines.

Riesling is considered an aromatic variety in the context of white grapes. This means that compared to some other white grapes (e.g., Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, etc.), its aroma profile is somewhat more lush, deeper, and more vibrant. Other well-known aromatic varieties include Moscato (e.g., Asti sparkling wines) and Sauvignon Blanc (e.g., the zesty whites of New Zealand).

Ironically, despite its reputation for sweet wines, Riesling is one of the most acidic white grape varieties in the world. By combining aromatic intensity, fruitiness, and high acidity, Riesling proves to be an incredibly versatile grape, capable of producing world-class wines when grown in the right place and handled by skilled winemakers.

Among sweet Rieslings, Germany’s late-harvest dessert wines are particularly renowned. Thanks to its naturally high acidity, Riesling can balance even extreme sweetness, making top-tier sweet wines (such as Icewine) exceptionally concentrated, complex, and intense.