Reisling Monterey County

As a columnist, I am excited to help you learn more about a delicious food you'll find in many restaurants across the United States, particularly in California's beautiful Monterey County: Riesling!

Riesling is a type of white wine that originated in Germany, but has gained popularity worldwide for its crisp, fruity flavor and versatility in pairing with a wide range of dishes. Here's a detailed guide to help you better understand and appreciate this delightful wine:

1. History:

Riesling has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century in Germany's Rhine region. It was first cultivated by monks, who recognized its potential and began planting it in their vineyards. Over time, Riesling spread throughout Europe and eventually made its way to other parts of the world, including the United States.

2. Characteristics:

Riesling is a white wine that typically has a pale yellow color with a hint of green. It is known for its high acidity, which makes it a refreshing choice for warm weather or to pair with fatty or spicy foods. Riesling wines can range from dry to sweet, with flavors of green apple, peach, and honey. The sweetness level can vary from off-dry (trocken) to sweet (süss), so you're sure to find a style that suits your taste.

3. Pairing:

Riesling's versatility makes it an excellent choice to pair with a wide range of cuisines, including:

a. Seafood: Riesling's crisp acidity complements the freshness of seafood, making it an excellent match for dishes like grilled salmon, shrimp, or oysters.

b. Poultry: Riesling's fruitiness and acidity work well with roasted or grilled chicken, turkey, or duck.

c. Spicy food: Riesling's sweetness and acidity can balance the heat of spicy dishes, making it a great pairing for Asian or Mexican cuisine.

d. Cheese: Riesling's acidity and fruitiness complement the richness and creaminess of cheeses like Brie or Camembert.

e. Fruit desserts: Riesling's sweetness makes it a perfect match for fruit-based desserts like fruit tarts, sorbet, or fresh fruit salads.

4. Monterey County connection:

Monterey County, California, is renowned for its wine production, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. However, Riesling is also gaining popularity in the region. Some notable Monterey County wineries that produce high-quality Riesling include:

a. Scheid Vineyards: Their Riesling is made from estate-grown grapes and is known for its citrus, green apple, and mineral flavors.

b. Hahn Estate & Winery: Their Riesling features a blend of fruit from Monterey and Paso Robles, offering a balanced taste of green apple, pear, and a hint of sweetness.

c. Bargetto Winery: Their Riesling is a dry style with a crisp, refreshing taste and flavors of green apple and citrus.

5. Tasting notes:

When tasting a Riesling from Monterey County, you may notice the following flavors and aromas:

a. Aromas: Citrus, green apple, pear, and a hint of honey or minerals.

b. Flavors: Green apple, pear, peach, and a range of sweetness levels, from dry to sweet.

c. Mouthfeel: Refreshing acidity, crisp and light-bodied, with a smooth, fruity finish.

Now that you know more about Riesling, keep an eye out for it on Monterey County wine lists or at your local wine shops. You're sure to enjoy its crisp, fruity flavors and versatility in pairing with a variety of dishes. Cheers to exploring this delightful wine!