As a sommelier and brewer with a passion for wine, I can tell you that Riesling wines can vary in their sweetness levels. The terms “dry” and “off-dry” are often used to describe the sweetness of Riesling wines, and it ultimately depends on the amount of residual sugar present in the wine.
When we talk about dry wines, we refer to wines that have a very low level of residual sugar, usually less than 10 grams per liter. These wines are typically crisp, refreshing, and have a more pronounced acidity. Dry Riesling wines are known for their citrus flavors and can be a wonderful accompaniment to a variety of dishes, from seafood to poultry.
On the other hand, off-dry wines fall in the middle ground between dry and sweet. They have a slightly higher level of residual sugar, usually ranging between 10 and 30 grams per liter. Off-dry Rieslings can offer a hint of sweetness that balances out the acidity, resulting in a more rounded and approachable wine. These wines often showcase flavors of ripe stone fruits like peach and apricot, making them a versatile choice for pairing with spicy foods or even as an aperitif.
However, it's important to note that Riesling is a grape variety that has the ability to produce wines across a wide spectrum of sweetness levels. Some Rieslings can be quite sweet, with more than 30 grams of sugar per liter. These sweet Rieslings are often luscious and can exhibit flavors of tropical fruits and honey. They are best enjoyed as dessert wines or as a treat on their own.
One of the reasons why Riesling is so fascinating is its ability to express its terroir and reflect the winemaker's style. Different regions and winemakers have their own preferences when it comes to sweetness levels in Riesling wines. For example, German Rieslings are known for their range of sweetness levels, from bone-dry to intensely sweet, while some Australian Rieslings tend to be drier and more focused on acidity.
To sum it up, Riesling wines can be dry, off-dry, or sweet, depending on the amount of residual sugar present. Dry Rieslings have less than 10 grams of sugar per liter, while off-dry Rieslings have slightly higher levels, typically ranging from 10 to 30 grams per liter. Sweet Rieslings can have more than 30 grams of sugar per liter and are often enjoyed as dessert wines. The beauty of Riesling lies in its versatility and ability to cater to a wide range of palates and preferences.