Kids are back to school, and it’s the perfect time for you to do the same! So welcome to a quick refresher series on Wine 101! Over the next week, we’ll be giving a quick refresher on Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Leading off, is Riesling!
Quick Facts on Riesling:
Riesling is the lightest of the noble grapes, and grows best in cool climates. The best feature sparkling acidity, potential honey like sweetness, and pops of citrus and stone fruit.
Color: White
Style: Dry to Sweet
Body: Light
General Characteristics: High Acidity, Low Alcohol, Stone Fruit, Minerality, Honey (if sweet)
Notable Regions: New York, Alsace (France), Germany, Austria
Dr. Lippold Empress Josephine’s Riesling 2014
Last year’s bottle, Dr. L Riesling was a phenomenal example of what Riesling could be, and the producer remains a recommendation. However, if you’re having trouble finding it, how does Dr. Lippold Empress Josephine’s Riesling fare as an alternative?
Sight: A light straw color with tints of gold. Very light on the edges.
Smell: Golden apples, pear, and light spices all come together from the beginning. Honeysuckle flutters around the edges with a touch of jasmine. Lemon and a touch of petroleum round things out.
Sip: There’s a nice honeyed note that starts things off, but is quickly balanced by great pop of lemon and slightly less than ripe golden apple. The balance pulls it from sweet to off-dry, and pulls in a good amount of pear, stone fruit elements, and honeysuckle. Texturally, it’s light, but rounded thanks to the touches of sugar.
Savor: The ending is carried through with unripe pears, fresh apples, hints of lemon, and touches of honey.
Empress Josephine’s Riesling is delightfully well balanced, and sparkles with acidity. Sure there’s a little note of petrol here, and a spot of brightness that maybe goes a little over the top, but on the whole, it’s a juicy and delightful riesling. The low alcohol content is a nice treat too, lending it well to food or relaxing. As intro Rieslings go, Dr. Lippold Empress Josephine’s Riesling is a great choice to start out with.
Verdict: Golden Apple, Pear, Honey, Floral, Lemon
Rating: 88
Price: $11
Mosel, Germany