Riesling vs Assyrtiko
Riesling
High acidity, usually with a light to medium body, across dry, off-dry, and sweet styles.
- Lime
- Very high acidity
- Dry to sweet
Recognize it
High acidity is the anchor, often with a light to medium body. Lime, green apple and peach are common when young. A petrol note can develop with bottle age.
Assyrtiko
A high-acid Greek white of lemon and salt with unusual weight for its freshness, and the grape of Santorini.
- Lemon
- High acidity
- Saline
Recognize it
High acidity, medium body, and noticeable alcohol give Assyrtiko more weight than many crisp coastal whites. Lemon and a salty note are common.
How they compare
- SimilarHigh acidity and citrus.
- DifferenceRiesling is usually more aromatic and lighter-bodied, while Assyrtiko is broader and more saline.