Olaszrizling

Just the other day, we went to Hungary. And, while we diverted just a bit for an "important" post, we haven't left Hungary. From our Saturday adventure with a rare red wine, let's use today to try out a white grape that outside of eastern Europe is almost as rare.

While this grape is grown outside of east central Europe and there, it predominates in the Eger and Villani regions of Hungary, if you were in other areas, you might see this grape labeled Welschriesling (romanic Riesling).

Despite the name, however, there is no indication that this grape is at all related to Riesling. Grape varietal names come from unusual origins. And, this one is no exception. Legend has it that some unknown soul way back when thought this grape had a lot of similarities to Riesling and gave it a related name and it stuck.

Olaszrisling likes cooler climates. In particular, cool nights and lack of daytime heat spikes are critical. So, where grapes that love hot sunshine are often planted with southwestern exposure, at least in the northern hemisphere, Olaszrizling is often planted with eastern or even northeastern exposure so that sunlight hits during the cooler parts of the day. Harvest is typically quite early, resulting in low levels of alcohol. Usually fermented in stainless steel, it's refreshing and quite easy-drinking.

The classic note of Olaszrisling is almond, no doubt from benzaldehydes that are often found in Champagne. But, around that, expect many of the characteristics of Sauvignon Blanc such as citrus, pear, and white flower blossoms. 

So, while the grape looks like Riesling, the wines it produces have exceptionally different characteristics, so it would seem to me they are not related.

And, we eat it with different foods. Enjoy this wine with grilled fish, fresh green vegetable, or creamy (vegetable) soups.