What Kind of Wine Is Sweet Riesling?
Riesling is made in a range of styles. Some are dry, others are sweet dessert wines, and there are even sparkling Rieslings to be discovered. The Riesling grape was originally from the winelands on the banks of the river Rhine in Germany. It is loved for its crisp, fruity flavors, and high acidity. Riesling can vary in taste from dry to very sweet. This may sound unpleasant to the Riesling “newbie”, but the most characteristic aroma of an aged Riesling is that of gasoline! This popular wine is now being grown in many assorted countries that offer a similar terroir – (cool climate wines) to that of the Rhine region. You will find wineries producing Riesling in Germany France, Australia, and the United States of America, amongst others.
Excellent for Aging in the Cellar
The Riesling grapes are deep golden yellow in color, and the wine can range from pale yellow to richly golden. Good sweet Riesling is famous for its sharp acidity, which gives complexity and lift to the wine. The bold acidity enhances the age-ability of these wines, and can last for decades. Here is a handy guide to Riesling wine:
- Kabinett: Made from fully ripened grapes. Sweet
- Spätlese: Made from ripe late harvest grapes. Dry to medium-sweet
- Beerenauslese: Made from selected grapes, some of which have been affected by “Noble rot”. Sweet
- Trockenbeerenauslese: Grapes used are fully “botrytized” grapes. Very sweet and rare
- Eiswein: Late harvest, botrytized grapes with high sugar levels are used. Grapes are naturally frozen on the vine and pressed in this solid state. Not over-sweet
Best Sweet Riesling Wines
Best Overall
- Name — Hermann J. Wiemer Late Harvest Riesling
- Winery — Hermann J. Wiemer
- Country/Region — United States, New York, Finger Lakes, Seneca Lake
- Type — New York State Riesling
- Aroma — Peach, Citrus, Honey, Apple, Pear
- Grapes — Riesling
- Taste — Mango, Candied Peach, Lemon, Pear
- Alcohol Content — 8.6%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Sushi, Mozzarella Caprese, Lemon Tart, Tiramisu
This best sweet Riesling white wine is on the list of the top 4% of the world’s wine in this category. That means that it is pretty d*mn good! It is produced in the traditional style. This means that the grapes are left to hang and benefit from the very last bit of the autumn warmth. This enables them to develop much deeper ripe flavors. They also get very plump and juicy which produces a full-bodied wine. The final product is a top-sweet Riesling wine that is full of late harvest goodness. This late harvest Riesling is so impressive with its bold, ripe fruitiness and the grounded flavors of minerals and slate.
The winery situated in Seneca Lake, USA, has done itself proud and deserves the worldwide acclaim it has been awarded. You can feel free to stock up on this wine because it will maintain its freshness for at least five years if stored correctly. You will experience the bright, invigorating taste from the first mouthful. This wine manages to be quite light and has moderate sweetness. There is a full palate of ripe tropical fruit like mango and papaya, and the floral notes dawdle into a long, smoky/ sweet finish. This versatile wine can be paired with cheese and fruit platters where it stands out as a refreshing post-meal wine. If served at a barbeque with some poultry or seafood, it will not be refused.
Best Cheap
- Name — Pacific Rim Sweet Riesling
- Winery — Pacific Rim
- Country/Region — United States, Washington, Columbia Valley
- Type — Washington State Riesling
- Aroma — Apple, Mango, Pear, Honey, White Flowers
- Grapes — Riesling
- Taste — Peach, Pineapple, Pear, Honey
- Alcohol Content — 8%
- Sugar — Sweet
- Pairing — Chili Chicken, Chocolate Blueberries, Spicy Thai Food, Baked Shrimp
Produced in Columbia Valley, Washington this reasonably sweet white wine is good value for money. This Riesling is made from organic grapes grown in the Wallula vineyard, and this winery is famously known as the home of Riesling and this variety of grape expresses the terroir in every mouthful. The perfect soil, climate, and the philosophy of purity, upheld by the Pacific Rim Company, combine to make this a fine example of a well-priced Riesling. The wines are fresh, vivid, and elegant with delicate yet complex aromas. This versatile type of wine has grown in popularity, and the craftsmanship required in its making has elevated it to a noble status amongst wines.
Although it is listed as one of the sweetest Riesling wines, the Pacific Rim Riesling is actually moderately sweet and presents your palate with hints of pineapple, peach, and honey. This white wine is a pleasant palate cleanser with its bright crispiness that balance out the fruitiness experienced upfront. Always serve Pacific Rim Sweet Riesling well chilled and it can then be enjoyed for sipping on many different occasions. It will pair well with fruity desserts
Best Under $20
- Name — Pacific Rim Riesling Vin de Glacière
- Winery — Pacific Rim
- Country/Region — United States, Washington, Columbia Valley
- Type — Washington State Riesling
- Aroma — Apricot, Honey, Pear, Peach
- Grapes — Riesling
- Taste — Pineapple, Honey, Peach, Cream
- Alcohol Content — 8.9%
- Sugar — Sweet
- Pairing — Pecan Pie, Flan Desser, Cheese Soufflé
Pacific Rim Riesling Vin de Glacière is nicknamed “The Ice monster” at the winery because this wine does not pull its punches. It is the best sweet Riesling under $20 and leaves the competition “out for the count”. This sweet Riesling undergoes some very special production methods to become this good. Pacific Rim Riesling Vin de Glacière is what is known as an ice wine and they use a process is called Cryo-extraction to make it. The Riesling grapes are picked when the optimum amount of sugar (22.5%) is reached in the late harvest grapes.
Every bunch of grapes is picked by hand, and the clusters of deep yellow grapes are kept in cold storage. When the grapes are frozen, the liquid inside freezes first and the sugar takes longer to freeze. When the grapes are later thawed, the sugar thaws first and is extracted. The remaining juice is much more concentrated. Of course, it is possible to just leave the grapes to freeze on the vine, but that is too risky and unpredictable. If the frost is slow at arriving, the birds will steal the ripe grapes before you get a chance to pick them.
Pacific Rim Riesling Vin de Glacière is not overly sweet or cloying. The initial fruity flavors of grapefruit, pear, and spices are perfectly balanced with a pleasant acidity. These flavors will improve with age, and become even more delicious – if that’s possible! It makes classic pairings with blue cheese, foie gras, or a fruit dessert. It also makes a surprisingly good ingredient for making cocktails. With its mellow sweetness and low alcohol, it is a great “mixer”.
Best From Germany
- Name — Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt Goldtröpfchen Riesling Spätlese
- Winery — Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt
- Country/Region — Germany, Mosel, Piesport
- Type — German Riesling
- Aroma — Pineapple, Peach, Lychee, Lemon, Grapefruit
- Grapes — Riesling
- Taste — Green Apple, Lemon, Mango, Pineapple, Melon
- Alcohol Content — 8%
- Sugar — Sweet
- Pairing — Thai Green Curry, Creamy Pasta, Lobster Stew, Scallops, Khao Soi
If you are looking for the best sweet German Riesling wine for a lunchtime tipple then the Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt Goldtröpfchen Riesling Spätlese is the one you need! It is low in alcohol and big on flavor. This Riesling is created at one of the most traditional wineries on the Mosel River, Germany. It is medium sweet and comes in at a very reasonable price. Straight after picking, the grapes are quickly taken away in paper containers to the winery.
The fermentation process takes place in stainless steel tanks in a natural way to retain the aroma and taste of the unique terroir. Without the most efficient processes to extract the wine, without using pumps, this wine has no bitter aftertaste that is evident in other lower quality Rieslings. Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt Goldtröpfchen Riesling Spätlese is considered the best sweet Riesling from Germany.
The nose of the Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt Goldtröpfchen Riesling Spätlese is a little smoky at first. This is followed by a floral scent. It is full of fruity flavors and a zesty background acidity. You will then taste exciting burst of tropical mango, pineapple and melon flavors. This leaves an elegant and refreshing palate that is utterly delightful. This wine is labor-intensive because the grapes have to be hand-picked on the steep slopes where it grows. This winery prides itself on its sustainable approach to winemaking and respect for the natural environment.
Best With High Alcohol Content
- Name — Chateau Ste. Michelle Harvest Select Sweet Riesling
- Winery — Chateau Ste. Michelle
- Country/Region — United States, Washington, Columbia Valley
- Type — Washington State Riesling
- Aroma — Apricot, Kiwi, Jasmine, Citrus
- Grapes — Riesling
- Taste — Honeysuckle, Pear, Peach, Floral Notes
- Alcohol Content — 10.5%
- Sugar — Sweet
- Pairing — Tangy Curry, Thai Foods, Indian Food, Anything Spicy
This superior sweet Chateau Ste. Michelle Harvest Select Sweet Riesling from Washington, USA is oozing with taste and elegance. I’m talking about sparkles of crispy apples, pears, and hints of cinnamon and caramel. All the sweetness is well-balanced with refreshing natural acids.It is enjoyed by so many because of its smooth sweetness on the palate. Columbia Valley Riesling is world-renowned for being versatile, with a youthful playfulness that makes it fun to drink.The Harvest Select Riesling is a little sweeter than some Rieslings from this area but is a great introduction to the Riesling grape. Don’t be mistaken – it still has the unique and complex Riesling characteristics.
Like many sweet wines, this Riesling pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit and desserts. It is also a must when you are serving a cheese platter. Much to my surprise, it complemented spicy food really well, and it is now always part of our Asian meals such as a tangy curry, and it is especially delicious when accompanying the fresh tastes of Thai cuisine.
Best Expensive
- Name — Inniskillin Riesling Icewine
- Winery — Inniskillin
- Country/Region — Canada, Ontario, Niagara Peninsula
- Type — Canadian Riesling
- Aroma — Apricot, Apple, Honey, Ginger, Peach
- Grapes — Riesling
- Taste — Honey, Melon, Citrus, Caramel, Pear
- Alcohol Content — 9.2%
- Sugar — Sweet
- Pairing — Lime Pie, Chocolate, Raspberries, Custard, Apple Doughnuts
For some Riesling lovers, the Inniskillin Riesling Ice wine will not be new to you. It is, after all, the third most expensive wine made in Niagara Peninsular, Canada. This peninsular is a prime wine-growing region, situated on the shores of Lake Ontario. Most of Canada’s ice wine is produced here because the terroir is perfectly suited to the growing of the Riesling grape.
With summers that are hot enough to ripen the grapes, but also consistently cold winters to freeze the ripened fruit, it is perfect for making ice wine. There are also glacial deposits, iron-rich shale, and loamy soil that provides all the minerals and nutrition for the developing vines. Because of the multitude of wineries in the region, it has also become famous for the Niagara Wine Festival. Winemaking is part of the culture and, the unique ice wine produced is especially celebrated.
An abundance of lively and fresh aromatics dominate this iconic Ice wine. First to the palate are the crispy deciduous fruit tastes of apricot, apple, and pear. This is followed by more mellow earthy notes of honey, ginger, and stone. The refreshing suggestions of citrus fruits will finish on the palate.
Best From Chile
- Name — Casas del Bosque Riesling Late Harvest
- Winery — Casas del Bosque
- Country/Region — Chile, Aconcagua, Casablanca Valley
- Type — Chilean Riesling
- Aroma — Tangerine, Apricot, Honey, Citrus
- Grapes — Riesling
- Taste — Walnut, Almond, Honey, Pomelo, Mango
- Alcohol Content — 8.9%
- Sugar — Sweet
- Pairing — Cheesecake, White Chocolate Mousse, Grilled Shrimps
The Casas del Bosque Riesling Late Harvest is a superb example of a Chilean dessert wine. It is understandable why this is an award-winning wine. Casas del Bosque is made on a family-owned vineyard in the Casablanca Valley, so it has an exclusive feel. The alcohol level is 9% and the Riesling grapes have left to become affected with botrytis, the noble fungus that is the friend of vintners.
The grapes are harvested as late as possible in the southern hemisphere (July) to ensure the highest concentrations of sugar. Then after traditional methods of pressing, the grapes are left to ferment in French oak barrels for up to 12 months. The Casas del Bosque Riesling Late Harvest would make the perfect gift as the light golden wine comes beautifully presented in a unique tin display box.
Who can resist the taste of apricots and crème Brulee? Those are the aromas on the nose of this Riesling. It is delicate and nuanced like a gracious and elegant partner. In the mouth, you will appreciate the warm notes of walnut, toasted almond, and honey. That is followed by a succulent sweetness which is perfectly balanced by a refreshing acidity. This complex and perfect structure gives the wine a long finish.
Best From Australia
- Name — Brown Brothers Noble Riesling Patricia
- Winery — Brown Brothers
- Country/Region — Australia, King Valley
- Type — Australian Riesling
- Aroma — Honey, Orange Peel, Apricot, Citrus
- Grapes — Riesling
- Taste — Jam, Pineapple, Candied Lemon, Apricot
- Alcohol Content — 9.5%
- Sugar — Sweet
- Pairing — Lemon Cheesecake, Sweet Fruit, Salted Caramel Ice Cream, Aged Cheeses
Brown Brothers Noble Riesling Patricia is a popular sweet Riesling that is freshened with botrytis influences. This creates hints of orange, marmalade, and honey. There are layers of complexity to this Riesling which raise it to one of the most elegant of Australian white wines. With the famous King Valley as its cradle, it is no surprise that this is one of the best Australian sweet Rieslings. The lush and perfect winelands of the King Valley, in the state of Victoria, is now a popular tourist attraction. There are many wineries, restaurants, and hotels, all of which have a little touch of royalty and elegance.
This Riesling is a bit picky and particular, which makes it difficult to grow. It will only flourish in perfect conditions and requires the right climate and the perfect harvesting time. The grapes are left on the vine until as late as possible in the vintage year. As the seasons change, the autumn sunshine and mists create the perfect conditions for Botrytis Cinerea or ‘Noble Rot’ to form the essential mold on the bunches of grapes. The mold causes the skins of the grapes to thin and wrinkle, producing a sort of raisin berry bursting with concentrated sugar and flavor. Winemaker, Cate Looney, notes that timing is critical at this stage.
If stored correctly in a cool, dark place, the Brown Brothers Noble Riesling Patriciawill last at least 5 more years. The nose captures the fresh aromatics, followed by hints of citrus. All these aromas concentrate on the palate and fill your mouth with complex, silky flavors. The high acidity at the end balances the residual sweetness, giving a clean finish. This dessert wine is delicious when partnered with sweet fruit, or desserts like salted caramel ice cream or lemon cheesecake. You will find it difficult to restrain yourself if you have it paired with a range of cheeses at the end of a meal. It is particularly good with strong blue cheeses.
Best From New Zealand
- Name — Cloudy Bay Late Harvest Riesling
- Winery — Cloudy Bay
- Country/Region — New Zealand, South Island, Marlborough
- Type — New Zealand Riesling
- Aroma — Peach, Citrus, Dried Fruit, Apples, Nectarine
- Grapes — Riesling
- Taste — Honeysuckle, Apricot, Orange Zest, Candied Fruits
- Alcohol Content — 10%
- Sugar — Sweet
- Pairing — Rich Pate, Fruity Desserts, Tangy Cheeses, Apple Crisp
Cloudy Bay Late Harvest Riesling is made at the winery in Wairau Valley, Marlborough in New Zealand. The winery is situated at the northern end of South Island, which has the perfect maritime climate and maximum amount of sunshine needed for late harvest Rieslings. Cloudy Bay wines are famous around the world for their unique Marlborough flavor, but the Cloudy Bay Late Harvest Riesling is not as well-known as the other types of wines that they produce. This dessert wine isn’t as widely available as their other wines, so you should buy a load when you see it! The very particular conditions needed to produce this top-quality sweet wine are not guaranteed in every vintage. They can only be described as magical when they occur.
Cloudy Bay Late Harvest Riesling is a sweet white wine made from late-harvested Riesling grapes with some botrytis-affected fruit. The hand-harvested fruit is carefully selected to include botrytis-affected grapes as well as a small selection of non-botrytized fruit included in the mix. That is to help the Riesling to keep an element of natural acidity. After pressing, the late harvest grape juice is allowed to ferment for 10 months in oak barrels. When bottled, the Riesling has 115 grams per liter of residual sugar.
You will detect aromas of peach, hints of citrus, and a dried fruit. The palate is spellbinding and you will be delighted with the rich, long finish. Cloudy Bay Late Harvest Riesling Great with a rich pate at the start of a meal. It is also a welcome treat with a fruity dessert. Always serve Cloudy Bay Late Harvest Riesling’s well chilled to enhance the silky texture. It is delightful when paired with tangy cheese and will provide a luscious ending to a meal.
Honorable Mention
- Name — Eroica Ice Wine Riesling
- Winery — Eroica
- Country/Region — United States, Washington, Columbia Valley
- Type — Washington State Riesling
- Aroma — Grapefruit, Lemon, Apricot, Peach
- Grapes — Riesling
- Taste — Peach, Pear, Apricot, Citrus, Honey
- Alcohol Content — 7.5%
- Sugar — Sweet
- Pairing — Spicy Foods, Cured Meats, Rich Stews, Lemon Tart
Eroica Ice Wine Riesling has a sophisticated Washington style and it is a trendsetter for top-end American Rieslings. This Riesling is believed to be the noblest white grape variety to be found in the world. Eroica Winery takes its name from Beethoven’s Third Symphony, and that sets the tone for the world-class wines that are produced there. The collaboration between two of the world’s best Riesling vintners, Ernst Loosen and Bob Bertheau is a match made in heaven.
You will encounter the concentrated fruit flavors of peach, pear, and apricot. This is closely followed by a delicious hint of lemony citrus sharpness. It ends with a gentle honey sweeping over the palate. Imagine taking a mouthful of sweet, pure mountain water bubbling down the over the rocks, and you have an inkling of how delicious and refreshing this Riesling is.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Sweet Riesling Wine Brands?
The sweetest Riesling brands, that are the best on the market, usually come from:
- The Alsace region of Germany
- Austria
- Australia
- New Zealand
- North America
- Canada
So look out for those countries named on the labels. The best sweet German Riesling wine brands are the Late Harvest Riesling by Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard and Kesselstatt Goldtröpfchen Riesling Spätlese. Other superior Riesling wines from other parts of the world include:
- Chateau Ste Michelle Harvest Select Sweet Riesling
- Inniskillin Wines Riesling Ice wine
- Brown Brothers Noble Riesling Patricia
- Cloudy Bay Late Harvest Riesling
What Is a Good Sweet Riesling Wine?
Pacific Rim Sweet Riesling and Pacific Rim Riesling Vin de Glaciere are two excellent sweet Riesling wines that offer great value for money.
What Food to Pair with Sweet Riesling?
Riesling is versatile and can pair with all food types. Its high acidity and natural sugars make it a great match for spicy cuisines, tangy cheeses, and sweet desserts.
Is Riesling a Sweet Wine?
Most Rieslings are considered sweet, dessert wines although they do range from dry and light to very sweet.
Is Riesling a Dessert Wine?
The intricate harvesting and fermentation processes ensure the characteristic sweetness that makes these grapes into a Riesling dessert wine.
What Type of Cheese Pairs Well With Sweet Riesling?
Any cheese on the platter will pair well with a glass of sweet Riesling. However, strong, blue cheeses like Gorgonzola, bring out the best in a sweet Riesling.
How Many Carbs Are There in Sweet Riesling?
A late-harvest Riesling could contain up to 20 grams of carbs per 5 ounce glass.
How Should Sweet Riesling Be Served?
Always serve these dessert wines well chilled.
How Is Sweet Riesling Made?
Most Sweet Rieslings are made with 100% Riesling grapes. They are left as late as possible on the vines to form the most concentrated sweetness and aroma in the grapes. Sometimes they are left until they are affected by “noble rot” – a type of mold. Fermentation in steel tanks (usually) is slow and last up to ten months.
Conclusion
The best Sweet Riesling wines are amongst the most elegant and complex wines produced in the world. The production is labor-intensive and precise, which makes these dessert wines special and a bit pricier than the average bottle of plonk.