Riesling gets its day in spotlight at London Summit

Published: 27 June, 2012

Inspired by similar events celebrating a single grape variety held in New Zealand and the US, Wines of Germany UK held its first Riesling Summit today at RIBA in London.

The day included a series of panel discussions and tastings featuring Rieslings from all over the world. Nicky Forrest, of Wines of Germany UK, said many in the trade are always talking about Riesling being their favourite grape variety "so we thought let's have a day to celebrate it".

Rather than just showcasing German Riesling, Forrest added: "We would have been missing a trick if we did not have some wines from Australia, New Zealand, Chile, France and the States as well."

The day kicked off with a lively debate on lower-alcohol wines and also offered three master classes on Riesling terroirs, Riesling for independents and Riesling in the on-trade.

Forrest added: "The problem Riesling has always had is reaching out to a wider consumer audience; the trade are the gate-keepers so if we can spend a day talking about Riesling, this will help consumers get the message."

Wines from Generation Riesling, a group of 350 young German Riesling-makers, were among those available to taste. Eva Fricke, a Rheingau winemaker, representing the group on the day, said modern German Riesling is all about balance, sustainability and lifestyle.

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