Restaurant Wine, Issue 91 (Sept/Oct 2002)

Rieslings on the Rise Issue

Special Report: Riesling is stirring in USA restaurants. After years of decline, it is appearing on more wine lists and by-the-glass programs than in any time in the past 15 years. In this report, we suggest why and discuss aspects of the varietal that servers should be informed about, including a look at the Rieslings of Germany.

Operation Profile: This San Francisco restaurant is one of the top wine destinations in the city. Interestingly, during the past year wine sales per guest have actually increased by 25%, and wine sales have jumped from 40% to 45% of total sales--all this against the backdrop of the slowing economy and the aftermath of 9/11. Here, we detail how and why this wine program continues to thrive.

Wine Reviews: We present 39 of the top 2001 German Rieslings, selected from among more than 150 tasted. Also, outstanding 2000 vintage Chardonnays from California; some of the best roses from California yet released; top value USA Pinot Noirs; a remarkable 2002 Riesling from Australia; four great Merlot values from Chile; and 14 wonderful wines from South Africa (from Chenin Blanc to Shiraz).