Product Review: Clover Hill Riesling

While it doesn’t count as a dessert wine, I found this Lehigh Valley Reisling, from Eastern Pennsylvania’s Clover Hill Winery, was certainly sweet enough to be confused as one.

On first impression, the wine is very sweet with the taste of tropical fruits. On the nose, its aroma was light, fruity and slightly citrusy. As the wine finishes, the acidity becomes more apparent as the wine hits the back of the palate. Overall, the sweet and the acid balance each other out.

For a bit of background - Generally, good Rieslings are associated with Germany, particularly the Rhine region where they originated. Still, you can find a decent one from other regions – even in the States. Rieslings can be tricky though; some are sweet, while others are dryer than one might expect. With German Rieslings, you can learn to tell by the region or vineyard.

Double-check before you purchase and pair. If you’re doing a last minute purchase and decide at the liquor store, it’s a good idea to talk to their wine specialist before you grab an unknown bottle from the shelf.

As far as food pairing, you have some flexibility.

This is not the best choice for someone unaccustomed to sweeter wines. It’s definitely worth pairing with lighter dishes – think pork or fish. Personally, I feel this wine would pair well with Pad Thai or similar Asian meal. If you want to try putting this wine with a dessert, go with something like a peach cobbler (or as you can see in the photo above, I went with an apple muffin). I actually If you want to go traditional for a traditional wine-and-cheese plate, try goat cheese on wheat crackers.

Because of their status as a local, family-run winery, you’re not likely to find Clover Hill products outside of the region, but shipping is available. I purchased this bottle of Lehigh Valley Riesling at the King of Prussia Mall.

Additional retail locations can be found here.

Clover Hill Riesling – Lehigh Valley

Rating 3 / $$

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