Wine Wednesday

Rise of the Riesling
Riesling, just the word used to make me think of syrup. It seems I misjudged this grape in it's ability to produce a drinkable wine, and had it not been for my need to try and keep up with a sommelier while on a dinner date, I'd still be turning up my nose to this varietal. 

Trimbach Reserva Riesling changed my mind. Trimbach winery is located in the Alsatian region of France (near the German border) and grows many of the same grapes as the German wineries, due to a similar climate and terrior. The first sip revealed a dry and fruity wine that was palatable and paired nicely with my meal. After a long conversation about German Rieslings and recommendations for some of the best, I decided to add this varietal to my possible tasting menus in the future.

This summer we took my search on the road to Germany and I found several Rieslings that I not only could tolerate, but actually loved. In fact, one in particular broke my heart when I realized I couldn't bring it back to savor when I got home. Our visit to Eberbach Abbey revealed that Rieslings and I are becoming fast friends. Their dry "Trocken" estate Riesling hit the spot. We enjoyed tasting their pinot noirs as well. They did have a sweeter Riesling, which tasted as expected, but it was the exception rather than the rule. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately, I will have to travel back to the abbey (or at least Germany) because they do not import to the United States. (I did notice on the Frankfurt airport website that they sell several of Kloster Eberbach's wines. If you are traveling through Frankfurt, I'd highly recommend buying a bottle.KG

What German wines and/or wineries do you love? What has been your experience with Rieslings? Any recommendations? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
 
Tomorrow: Tasty Thursday – Goulash Suppe