Alsatian Riesling

Delicate. That's the word that comes to mind when first tasting this Riesling from the Alsace region in France (2003 Lucien Albrecht Riesling), still overly cold from the fridge. While many people think Riesling's are a sweet desert wine, my experience has shown that very few fall into that category. I was curious to try this vintage from Alsace, once a part of Germany, home to many of the great Riesling producers.

In my opinion Riesling is the perfect summer or picnic wine. It's not going to overpower your cheesecake with strawberries or your ripe watermelon slice, and it won't make you feel heavy and slow. It will also complement salty, mildly spicy or peppery foods like salami or deviled eggs. This particular Riesling really slides into the picnic role with flair. As it warms a bit a nice apple taste develops along with an initial tartness that's pleasant, not painful or distracting.

Can you tell that I like this one? I do - highly recommended for your next outdoor lunch. Just don't drink the whole bottle.