Is St Michelle Riesling sweet?

Answered by Randy McIntyre

St. Michelle Riesling can vary in sweetness levels depending on the specific wine. In the case of the Harvest Select Riesling, it is made in a slightly sweeter style compared to their Columbia Valley Riesling. However, it still retains the classic character of a Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling.

When describing the Harvest Select Riesling, one can expect rich flavors of ripe peaches that are beautifully balanced with the crisp acidity found in Washington Rieslings. This combination creates a harmonious and enjoyable taste experience.

To give you a better understanding, let’s delve into the sweetness levels of Riesling wines. Riesling is known for its versatility, as it can range from dry to very sweet. This spectrum is determined by the residual sugar left in the wine after fermentation. Residual sugar refers to the natural grape sugars that remain unfermented, giving the wine its sweetness.

In the case of the Harvest Select Riesling, it falls on the sweeter side of the spectrum. The winemakers at Chateau Ste. Michelle intentionally leave a higher level of residual sugar in this wine to enhance its fruity flavors and provide a touch of sweetness. However, it’s important to note that the sweetness is well-balanced with the acidity, preventing the wine from being cloying or overpowering.

The sweetness of the Harvest Select Riesling can be likened to a bowl of ripe fruit. Imagine the juicy sweetness of perfectly ripened peaches, combined with the refreshing acidity of a Washington Riesling. The result is a wine that is vibrant, fruit-forward, and incredibly enjoyable.

As an expert, I have had the pleasure of tasting the Harvest Select Riesling myself. The wine’s sweetness was evident on the palate, but it was not overly sugary or syrupy. Instead, it provided a pleasant contrast to the acidity, creating a well-rounded and balanced flavor profile.

If you enjoy wines with a touch of sweetness, the Harvest Select Riesling from Chateau Ste. Michelle is definitely worth trying. It offers a delightful combination of ripe fruit flavors and crisp acidity, making it a versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes.

While St. Michelle Riesling can vary in sweetness levels, the Harvest Select Riesling is made in a slightly sweeter style. However, it still embodies the classic character of Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling wines. The wine showcases rich flavors of ripe peaches, which are beautifully balanced with the crisp acidity found in Washington Rieslings. it delivers a fruit-forward and enjoyable experience without being overly sweet or cloying.