Riesling is a white grape variety that originated in the Rhine region. Riesling is an aromatic grape variety displaying flowery, almost perfumed, aromas as well as high acidity. It is used to make dry, semi-sweet, sweet, and sparkling white wines. Riesling wines are usually varietally pure and are seldom oaked.
 

Riesling is a bit of an enigma; ethereal, floral and enchanting, riesling is also one of the world's hardiest grape varieties, with a high level of frost resistance meaning it thrives in some of the coolest climate wine regions. This aromatic grape variety makes some of the world's finest white wines in a vast variety of styles, the best of which will age brilliantly, turning from floral, lime aromas and flavours to intriguing developed aromas of kerosene.
 

Riesling grapes are small and form compact bunches on the vine, which makes them great for sweet wine production as they are very susceptible to noble rot (a mold which dries the grapes out, intensifying the sweetness). It's renowned for expressing terroir, with different regions producing very unique styles.
 

New Zealand's cooler climate (Marlborough in particular) means riesling grapes ripen more slowly here, giving lots of potential for tangy, peach and lemon-scented styles with a light body.