Riesling wines are dynamic, food-favoring wines that continue to gain fans on an international level. There is great variety and expression within this single grape varietal, adding to the interest and versatility of this noble white wine grape.
11. Hogue Cellars Genesis Riesling 2008 (WA) $14
For the price, this may be the best value Riesling on the market. This is an off-dry Riesling that pours intensity on the nose and palate - a fine collaboration of sweet fruit and restrained acidity. Fantastic with spicy Asian or Thai fare.
12. Pacific Rim Wallula Vineyard Riesling 2007 (WA) $19
Pacific Rim
This Washington Riesling is an interesting wine from glass to finish. It delights the senses with a melding of tropical and citrus fruits on the palate, followed up with hints of apple and even a dash of peach. Lovely contact between the acidity and fruit bring about a streamlined approach that will work exceptionally well with an assortment of food choices.
13. Mönchhof Estate Riesling 2007 (Germany) $15
Monchhof Estate
The 2007 Mönchhof Estate Riesling offers up plenty of high profile aromatics and washes the bright, spice-laden fruit flavors of peach and apple in plenty of mouth-watering acidity. A fantastic option for bringing out the best in sushi, Indian curries or give it a pour with your favorite poultry-based dishes - a very versatile wine indeed.
14. Schloss Schonborn Riesling Halbtrocken 2007 (Germany) $ 14
Schloss Schonborn
This is a classic, off-dry German Riesling. A good value wine, with ripe lemon and grapefruit flavors firmly planted in a subtle minerality. This Riesling has got gutsy acidity, layered fruit, a clean, clear finish and a winning price. What more could you ask for?
15. Smith-Madrone Riesling 2008 (CA) $27
Smith-Madrone
The 2008 Smith-Madrone Riesling is an estate grown and bottled tropical delight from full-flavored start to crisp, mouthwatering finish. On the nose, you can expect the engaging, high-profile floral aromatics that have endeared Riesling fans for ages. The palate yields plenty of ripe fruit - juicy peach, D'Anjou pear along with exotic tropical nuances all showcased against an outstanding backdrop of evenly balanced acidity and low residual sugar levels. A fantastic find for trickier food pairing options, based on the levels of acidity and overall palate performance.
16. Clean Slate Riesling 2007 (Germany) $12
Clean Slate
The 2006 Clean Slate Riesling, from Germany's distinguished Mosel valley, is an ultra refreshing Riesling - perfect for summer salads, sushi and delicious with apple-based desserts. The flavor profile is full of ripe peach, fantastic minerality and a sweet spice with a very clean sweeping finish.
