Pacific Rim Winemakers 2012 Sweet Riesling, Columbia Valley, $11
Best Buy! Armed with their latest slogan of “If you can’t stand the heat, get out the Riesling,” this West Richland, Wash., winery produces Riesling in a handful of different styles. While this tips the scales at 8% residual sugar, it is balanced, low alcohol and mighty tasty. Fun aromas and flavors of tropical fruit pick up notes of Fuji apple and the gradual buildup of limeade in the finish makes for mouthwatering acidity. A bit of spritzy acidity and the approach of sugar makes it ideal for brunch or anything dish with some spice and heat. The fire-breathing dragon behind the label of this clear bottle might as well be reaching for a glass of this Riesling. Try out Oregon Coast chef Bob Neroni’s recipe for Sticky Hot Barbecue Pork Ribs.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 49,900 cases
Alcohol: 8.5%
Sheila Nicholas says
Just one from Oregon? Over 40 of us recently conducted a technical tasting of pre-bottled 2014 Oregon Rieslings with exciting results. SmackDown?
Eric Degerman says
Greetings Sheila,
Thank you for taking the time to comment. Actually, there are three 2013 Rieslings from Oregon in that slideshow — South Stage Cellars, Willamette Valley Vineyards and Mt. Hood Winery. We’re looking forward to seeing the Rieslings coming out of Oregon from the 2014 vintage.