What range of sweetness can be found in Riesling wines?

Riesling wines can exhibit a wide range of sweetness levels, making them extremely versatile and appealing to varying palates. The grape is known for its naturally high acidity, which allows for successful production of wines that range from bone-dry to lusciously sweet.

In dry Rieslings, the fermentation process converts most of the sugars into alcohol, resulting in a refreshing and crisp wine that can pair well with a variety of foods. Conversely, when produced in a sweeter style, Riesling retains more residual sugar, leading to rich and aromatic wines that are often enjoyed with desserts or as a flavorful accompaniment to spicy dishes.

There are also off-dry Rieslings that fall in between these extremes, offering a touch of sweetness balanced by the acidity. This characteristic versatility is one of the reasons Riesling is celebrated and enjoyed across the globe, particularly in regions known for this varietal, such as Germany and parts of Australia. Thus, the correct choice reflects the full spectrum of sweetness that winemakers can achieve with Riesling.