When it comes to Riesling, it is important to note that it can be made in various styles, ranging from sweet to dry. Traditionally, Riesling is known for its sweetness, but in recent years, dry and semi-dry styles have gained popularity among wine enthusiasts. So, to answer the question, most Rieslings can be either dry or sweet, depending on the winemaker's intention and the region where it is produced.
Riesling is a grape variety that thrives in cool climates, such as Germany, Alsace, Austria, and parts of the United States, like the Finger Lakes region in New York. This grape is known for its high acidity and ability to retain its acidity even when fully ripened. This characteristic is what makes Riesling wines so versatile, as they can range from bone-dry to lusciously sweet.
In Germany, where Riesling originated, the labeling system can be helpful in determining the sweetness level of the wine. The terms “Trocken” and “Halbtrocken” indicate dry and off-dry styles respectively, while “Kabinett,” “Spätlese,” “Auslese,” “Beerenauslese,” and “Trockenbeerenauslese” are terms used to indicate increasing levels of sweetness, with the latter being the sweetest. However, it's worth noting that these terms are specific to German Rieslings and may not apply to Rieslings from other regions.
In my personal experience as a sommelier, I have come across Rieslings that vary greatly in sweetness levels. Some Rieslings from Germany or Alsace can be pleasantly dry, with crisp acidity and flavors of citrus fruits and minerals. These dry Rieslings pair well with seafood, poultry, and spicy dishes. On the other hand, there are also Rieslings that exhibit a luscious sweetness, with aromas of ripe fruits like apricot, peach, and pineapple. These sweet Rieslings are often enjoyed as dessert wines or paired with spicy Asian cuisine.
The decision to produce a dry or sweet Riesling often depends on the winemaker's preference and the climate of the region. In cooler climates, where the grapes may not fully ripen, the resulting wines may have higher acidity and lower sugar levels, leading to a drier style. In warmer climates, the grapes can fully ripen, resulting in wines with more residual sugar and a sweeter taste.
It's important to mention that the sweetness in Riesling wines can be balanced by its acidity. This balance is what makes Riesling such a versatile and food-friendly wine. The acidity in Riesling helps to cut through rich and fatty dishes, making it an excellent companion for a wide range of cuisines.
To summarize, Riesling wines can be made in a variety of styles, ranging from dry to sweet. The sweetness level of a Riesling depends on factors such as the winemaker's intention, the region of production, and the ripeness of the grapes. The labeling system in certain regions, such as Germany, can provide some guidance on the sweetness level of the wine. Ultimately, it's a matter of personal preference whether you prefer a dry, semi-dry, or sweet Riesling.