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A Versatile Vino

A Versatile Vino
April 2015
Rieslings have a reputation for being saccharine, but Kristen Bland, wine director at Union Provisions, says the varietal is misunderstood. “There’s no other grape with as much versatility,” she notes. “It can be sweet or bone dry, light or full bodied, and everything in between.” Here, she highlights three with flavor profiles that run the gamut


Under $25
Ravines Dry Riesling, 2012
Finger Lakes, New York

“Most people don’t think of New York state as a hotbed of world-class riesling, but because of the area’s cooler climate and unique terroir, that’s changing. This pick brims with fresh pear, citrus peel, yellow peach, and white flowers. It’s a blend of the Old World’s racy acidity and bold minerality with New World fruit and body.” Available at Bottles, $20

$50 and up
2004 Max Ferd. Richter,
Mosel, Germany, Riesling Spatlese

“This hails from one of the best riesling regions in the world: the steep slopes of the Mosel in Germany. The blend, which shows continued promise after more than a decade of age, highlights the grape’s sweeter side with notes of honey, apricot, and lemon meringue. It has stony minerality and pairs well with spicy fare.” Available at Bull Street Gourmet, $35

Under $75
Schloss Gobelsburg Tradition Reserve Riesling, 2008, Kamptal, Austria

“Made in a bold and dry style, Australian rieslings are brilliant. This one boasts lingering flavors of candied citrus, white flowers, and lime zest. Piercing acidity dominates the palate as it finishes long and strong with unwavering complexity. This is a wine with enough backbone to stand up to a hearty meal.” Available at Crushed Fine Wine, $49

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