Riesling. So beloved by sommeliers and connoisseurs, but the U.S public just doesn’t get it. Perhaps it has to do with confusion about sweetness. Budget Riesling is usually off-dry to semi-sweet and many people profess not to like sweet wine. Of course, these are the same people who fawn over Apothic Red. So I’m not sure sweetness levels explain Riesling’s tough sell. Maybe Riesling has too much flavor. After all, Pinot Grigio is a big hit among this crowd. Go figure.
At any rate, this Hogue Riesling is dangerously drinkable, just sweet enough to be addictive on a hot, muggy August night when you’re grasping at anything to lighten the mood. Apple accented by tangerine is the basic flavor profile, with floral hints and some wet stone minerality. On the palate, it’s a medium-bodied mouthful of tangerine with bracing minerality and a clean, fresh, slightly chalky finish. Nothing original here. Simple and linear but well-balanced with plenty of refreshing acidity, an excellent value. Corporate wine at its best.
Pair with this sweet, late summer ditty with all the harmony of a good Riesling.
Score: 88
Price: $11
Alc: 12%
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