Let’s cele-grape! On International Riesling Day, we acknowledge one of the oldest grape varietals in the world – Riesling!

Each grape varietal has its own place in the world of wine, and there seems to be a wine out there for everyone. But today we specifically highlight the beauty of a Riesling.

A wine as old as time, Riesling can be traced back to the 1800s (with our very own Brockenchack Riesling vines dating back to 1896 and could now be the oldest in Australia).

So, let’s put your knowledge to the test – how much do you really know about Riesling?

Riesling characteristics - What makes a Riesling?

One thing we love about Riesling is that you’ll rarely find it blended with other grapes. It’s an elegant light to medium-bodied aromatic wine with high acidity, which makes it diverse and lends itself to being aged – we hope you have room in your cellars, people! We don’t like to brag, but cool-climate regions, such as our stunning home in Eden Valley, produces some of the best Australian Rieslings! *Cue add some 2022 Mackenzie William 1896 Riesling to cart.

Do you prefer an aged or young Riesling?

Aged– When cellared for several years to a decade the wine will develop a more complex profile with prominent diesel, toast, and honey flavours. This translates to a richer mouthfeel, smoother texture, and mellowness on the palate.

Young– As you can imagine, young Rieslings are fresh and vibrant. Very fruit-forward, and aromatic with citrus and apple flavours as the most prominent. Way too drinkable for those who love citrus-based characters, and juicy acidity.

Bone-dry versus Sweet Riesling

There’s always the assumption that Riesling is sweet, but that’s far from the truth! This wine’s diversity means that the scale ranges from bone-dry to sweet. Traditionally, Riesling is a sweet wine, but more recently, dry styles have gained popularity. Where do you sit on the scale?

Wine and Dine – FoodPairings

Wanting to wine and dine with your friends and family, but don’t know where to begin your Riesling pairing journey? We’ve got you!

It’s as easy as following the wine’s lead. This white wine is perfectly paired with white meats, seafood, Asian dishes, or any meals where you’ll be squeezing lemon or lime over the top. Spending days or afternoons by the beach or pool more at your pace? Our Mackenzie William Riesling also goes particularly well with salt and pepper squid (and yes, we know this from first-hand experience!).

What are you waiting for? It’s time to celebrate a special wine on this special day!

Why not toast with a glass of our outstanding award-winning Riesling?

OurMackenzie William 1896 Rieslingcontinues to shine as the 2022 vintage wasawarded 98 points by Winestate Magazine. Our vintages are also a product of and showcase the oldest Riesling vines in the Barossa and possibly Australia. Plus, if you want to experience it both young and aged, it will age gracefully for a decade under the right cellaring conditions.

Cheers to 588 years of Riesling!