Definition: riesling

This grape variety is mainly planted in Germany (22,000 hectares planted), but is also found in Alsace (2,900 ha), Australia (3,700 ha), South Africa (3,500 ha), the United States (3,000 ha in California and New York State), Romania (3,000 hectares), Slovakia (1,500 hectares), Bulgaria (1,500 hectares), Austria (1,200 hectares) and New Zealand (400 hectares).
Characteristics:
Late bud break;
Late ripening;
High natural yields (up to 100 hl/ha);
Susceptible to noble rot;
High acidity;
Excellent expression of terroir (hence its nickname "terroir sponge").
Riesling pairs perfectly with grilled or butter-cooked fish, poultry in sauce, such as Riesling-braised chicken, and cheeses such as fresh goat's cheese.