Riesling Spätlese - Auslese - Eiswein

Riesling Spätlese, Auslese, and Eiswein are all styles of sweet Riesling wines made from late-harvested grapes, but they differ in their level of ripeness and sweetness.

1. Riesling Spätlese is a late-harvested wine, meaning that the grapes are picked later in the season when they have a higher level of ripeness and sugar content. The resulting wine is typically semi-sweet, with a balanced acidity that gives it a refreshing character. Riesling Spätlese wines have a range of flavors, including citrus, tropical fruit, and floral notes, and are known for their complexity and depth.
2. Riesling Auslese is made from even riper grapes, which are usually affected by noble rot, a type of fungus that concentrates the sugar in the grapes and adds complexity to the wine. Auslese wines are typically sweet, with a rich and complex flavor profile that includes notes of honey, apricot, and peach.
3. Riesling Eiswein, or Ice Wine, is made from grapes that are left on the vine until they freeze, which concentrates the sugar in the grapes. The frozen grapes are then pressed, resulting in a sweet and intensely flavored wine that is characterized by its acidity and freshness.

All three styles of Riesling are popular and highly sought after by wine enthusiasts, and pair well with a range of desserts, including fruit tarts, cheesecake, and crème brûlée. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a dessert wine or paired with spicy and flavorful dishes from Asian cuisine.