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id you know that there are only three days left to indulge in German riesling this month? Most likely not, unless you’re in the trade and already aware of the ongoing celebration known as the 31 days of German riesling. But here’s a question for you: do you really want to drink riesling, or any wine, for 31 consecutive days?
Also, what’s the point of this promotion? Well, these types of promotions help independent merchants promote their wines during specific times of the year. Given the current challenges, especially with the upcoming duty rises in August, it’s a positive boost for the independent wine industry. Usually, these promotions focus on wines that are more difficult to sell, so don’t expect a champagne month. However, riesling, particularly German riesling (pronounced reece-ling not rice-ling, in case you wondered), has always been a hard sell.
In fact, drinking riesling during this time of year is actually quite enjoyable. It’s a light, fruity, and low-alcohol option. But why is German wine not as popular in the UK? There are a few factors at play. Firstly, Germany is not a common holiday destination for British people, so they have less exposure to German culture and cuisine, where they might develop a taste for German wines. Additionally, German rieslings are often off-dry, even when labeled as “trocken” (dry), which can discourage some consumers, even though many people actually prefer sweeter wines. However, it’s worth noting that German rieslings have changed over time. The ABV levels are now higher, around 11% or 12%, compared to the previous 8% or 9%. This means that more of the sugar has fermented out, even in low-alcohol Mosel rieslings.
Of course, German riesling isn’t the only option available. If you prefer a drier style, you can explore rieslings from Alsace or Austria. The Wine Society’s own-label Austrian riesling, which recently won a gold medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards, is an excellent choice and offers great value at less than £10. Australia is known for its limey style of riesling, while New Zealand tends to showcase more tropical fruit flavors. Even Naked Wines, despite some concerns about their “market price” comparisons, offers a fantastic Dom Maxwell The Crush Riesling 2022 from the Waipara Valley at a reasonable price.
I also recommend trying a more expensive riesling at least once. I was truly impressed by the quality of the ones I tried in the £20-24 range, and you wouldn’t get much champagne for that price.
Five rieslings to enjoy this summer
Morrisons The Best German Riesling 2020
£8.50 (25% off if you buy three), 12.5%. This Pfalz riesling offers an unusual limey flavor reminiscent of Australian ones. It pairs well with Thai food.
The Society’s Austrian Riesling 2022
£9.95 from The Wine Society, 12%. This crisp and bright riesling is not overly aromatic, making it a great choice for skeptics. It complements seafood and salads.
Dr Pauly Bergweiler Riesling Trocken 2021
£12.99 (or £11.69 if you buy 12) from Cambridge Wine Merchants, 11%. This crisp and crunchy riesling has a delightful apple flavor. It’s perfect as a summer aperitif when paired with goat’s cheese toasts. Surprisingly dry for a Mosel.
Weingut Leitz Magic Mountain Rüdesheimer Riesling Trocken 2021/22
£24 from Great Wine Co, 12.5%. This luscious Rheingau riesling offers an abundance of tropical fruit flavors. It’s a great choice for sauvignon blanc lovers and pairs well with Asian-style glazed pork dishes or Thai food.
Mayfield Vineyard Backyard Riesling 2022
£22 from Great Wine Co, 11.5%. Although not the typical region for Australian riesling, this delicate and fresh wine from New South Wales is absolutely delightful. It’s an excellent choice for seafood, especially oysters.
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