Riesling - California’s Wine Grape Varietals

Great wine begins with great grapes. Capitalizing on the state’s diverse geography and climates, California wine-grape growers can grow a wide range of grape varieties and styles. The Golden State boasts more than 100 different varieties of wine grapes, thanks to its diverse topography, soils, climates and growers.

With respect for tradition and a propensity for innovation, California’s wine-grape growers are able to produce some of the best grapes, and wines, in the world. Here’s a look at some of California’s most notable wine grapes:

Image of Riesling Wine Grapes Varietals on the vine, grown in California

Pronunciation

Riesling is pronounced REES-ling.

Riesling (White)

Riesling grapes are very finicky about where they’re planted. The grapes perform better in cooler climates, and depending on winemaking techniques can vary dramatically from very dry to slightly or even very sweet. Riesling wines from California tend to be soft and full, with delicate fruit and floral flavors.

Taste: A riesling's typical aromas are of flowers, tropical fruits and mineral stone.

Perfect Food Matches: Riesling is perfect with cold cracked crab or lobster roll, with spicy Thai dishes like duck or beef salad, and even with Indian curries.