Riesling Day

Washington State Riesling is a wine that is celebrated globally, and International Riesling Day on March 13th is the perfect occasion to raise a glass and toast to this fantastic grape. Here is everything you need to know about Washington State Riesling.

History and Background:

Washington state has a long and proud history of producing Riesling wines. The first Riesling vines were planted in the state in the 1880's (before its statehood), and by the 1980s, the grape had gained significant popularity among winemakers in the region. Today, Riesling is the state's fourth most planted grape variety, trailing only Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay in terms of total production volume.

Vineyards:

Washington State offers a wide variety of vineyards that grow Riesling grapes. The Columbia Valley AVA is the most prominent region for growing Riesling grapes with its unique climate of hot, dry summers with cool nights creating a diurnal temperature swing. Also, the area has diverse soils ranging from sandy loam to gravel and cobblestones and soils with high levels of volcanic ash and minerals. This diversity allows different vineyards to produce Riesling with varying styles and flavors.

Styles:

Washington state Rieslings come in a variety of styles, from bone-dry to intensely sweet. Dry Rieslings are often crisp, refreshing, and light-bodied, with notes of citrus, green apple, and minerality. These wines pair well with fresh seafood, including Dungeness crab, oysters, and mussels. Sweeter Rieslings are fuller-bodied and can feature flavors of honey, apricot, and peach. These wines pair well with spicy Asian cuisine and dishes featuring duck, pork, chicken, and crab.

Top Producers:

Washington State is home to many top-quality Riesling producers, each offering their unique take on the grape. Some of the more recognized Riesling producers in the state include Nine Hats, Pacific Rim, Charles Smith, Kiona, and Chateau Ste. Michelle (the largest producer.)

International Riesling Day:

International Riesling Day is celebrated on March 13th every year, and it is a day to honor and celebrate this beloved grape variety. Riesling is a grape that is capable of producing wines that range from bone-dry to lusciously sweet, making it one of the most versatile wine grapes in the world. So whether you prefer your Riesling with fresh seafood or spicy Asian cuisine, there is a Riesling out there that will pair perfectly with your meal.

To celebrate I chose a local family winery, Barnard Griffin, that has been producing wine for 40 years. The 2020 Riesling from Bacchus and Gamache Vineyards (Columbia Valley AVA) paired well with a grilled pork tenderloin topped with mango salsa. The pork had a chili powder, cocoa powder, cumin, and paprika rub. Inspired by this Mark’s Daily Apple recipe. The wine was off dry with citrus, bright apple, and an acidic minerality long finish.

In conclusion, Washington State Riesling is a dynamic and exciting category of wine that is well worth exploring. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of wine, International Riesling Day is the perfect occasion to discover the wonders of this fantastic grape. So, grab a bottle of your favorite Washington State Riesling and raise a glass to this incredible wine!