What are the best climates for producing Riesling?

The optimal climates for producing Riesling are cool to moderate. Riesling thrives in these conditions because it requires a longer growing season to fully develop its aromatic qualities and retain its acidity. Cooler climates allow the grapes to ripen slowly, which is essential for developing the varietal's characteristic balance of sugar and acidity, resulting in wines that are fragrant, fresh, and can be made in a range of styles from dry to sweet.

Regions that exemplify these ideal conditions include Germany's Mosel and Rheingau, and also Alsace in France, where the moderate temperatures and sunlight exposure of the growing season promote the development of the grape's complexity without compromising its natural acidity.

While warmer climates can lead to overripe grapes with lower acidity, Riesling’s best expressions are made in cooler areas where the grapes can achieve an ideal balance. This helps explain why the other climate options are less suited to producing high-quality Riesling.