Niagara is known for its wines, and Rieslings are one of the more popular varietals produced in the region. Riesling thrives in the cool climate conditions of the area, and it is a very versatile wine that pairs with a wide assortment of food. The next time you are in the area, make sure to visit the local wineries and try their Rieslings along with other varietals.

History of Riesling in Niagara

The wine renaissance began in Niagara in the early 1970s. The Riesling grape was an obvious choice for planting, as the cool temperatures of Canada made it a natural locale for this hardy variety. The first Riesling, the vines coming from a nursery in Germany, was sowed in 1976 at Vineland Estates. The reputation of the wine began to spread in the early 1980s, which attracted German, and even Italian, families.

The Pennachetti family founded Cave Spring winery and moved Riesling into the mainstream. They made a variety of Rieslings including off-dry, dry, a late harvest variety, and even a Riesling Icewine. These types of Rieslings continue to thrive in the region.

Characteristics of Niagara Riesling

The majority of the Rieslings made in Niagara are still based off of the vines that were imported from Germany. The wines produced have green apple, citrus, and mineral notes. Other Rieslings are made from different clones from Germany, and these produce softer styles of wine.