Wines Riesling Vickery - Watervale Reserve - 2021

Vickery’s Cuvée Watervale Reserve 2021, produced in the Alsace region of France, is a dry white wine that promises freshness, precision and a lively aromatic profile. While the exact varietal makeup is not fully confirmed, its association with the Riesling appellation suggests a wine that is likely to showcase vibrant acidity, subtle citrus, green apple and perhaps floral or mineral notes so typical of the region’s revered white wines. The 2021 vintage in Alsace was marked by a relatively cool growing season, which often yields wines of remarkable finesse and delicate structure, making this bottle an excellent representative of Alsace’s pure, expressive dry whites.

Alsace, nestled between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine river, stands out for its unique mosaic of soils, ranging from granite to limestone and clay, contributing to the nuanced complexity of its wines. The region’s continental climate—with warm, sunny days and cool nights—delivers wines with intense aromatics, lively acidity, and a remarkable capacity to convey terroir. Historically, Alsace has been shaped by both French and German influences, its wine culture celebrating varietal purity and meticulous viticulture. Riesling, in particular, is one of the region’s flagship grapes, producing wines admired for their longevity, vibrancy, and mineral-driven profiles.

For food pairings, the taut and dry character of an Alsace Riesling makes it an excellent partner to a wide array of dishes. It excels alongside fresh seafood such as oysters, mussels, or grilled white fish, as well as delicate sushi and sashimi. Regional classics like choucroute garnie or tarte flambée also find harmony here, as the wine’s crisp acidity effortlessly cuts through richer, more savoury flavours. Light poultry or vegetable-based dishes—think of a spring vegetable risotto or goat’s cheese salad—are likewise appealing pairings.

For optimum enjoyment, serve this wine chilled but not overly cold—in the region of 8-10°C—so as to fully appreciate its nuanced bouquet and refreshing palate. Consider decanting briefly or swirling in the glass to release its aromatic complexity as the wine opens up.