Similarities of Riesling & Chardonnay
Chardonnay and Riesling are white dry wines, grown in vast areas of Europe, USA (California, Washington), Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Argentina and South Africa. The origin of both wines is from Burgundy (around the Rhine region). Both wines are light-to-medium body with strong fruit flavors, depending on the origins. Similar aromas of both wines are the ones having citrus, lemon and apples as a flavor.
Differences of Riesling & Chardonnay
Riesling wines could be dry, semi-sweet or even sweet, but Chardonnay is predominantly dry and soft-acidic. Another difference is the wine color: Chardonnay tends to be gold or brownish-colored, whereas Riesling is lighter or yellowish. Oaked Chardonnay could be a heavy-bodied wine in opposition to light-bodied Riesling. Usually, Chardonnay’s aroma is different and, oftentimes, has strong fruit notes, while Riesling is a milder and special petrol aroma.
How To Distinguish Between Riesling & Chardonnay
Both wines, Riesling and Chardonnay, are one of the most popular white wines worldwide. Although there are many common characteristics, these two wines still differ. Chardonnay has a strong fruity bouquet, whereas Riesling is refreshing due to its higher acidity. For the newcomers into wine-tasting, the easiest way to distinguish them is the color and taste (if Riesling is semi-sweet and sweet).
Riesling vs Chardonnay Comparison Chart
| Characteristic | Riesling | Chardonnay |
| Sweetness | Low to High | Low |
| Acidity | Medium to High | Low to Medium |
| Tannins | Low | Low |
| Body | Light | Medium to Full |
| Tasting Notes | Lime, Green Apple, Beeswax, Jasmine, Petroleum | Green Apple, Starfruit, Pineapple, Vanilla, Butter |
| Popularity | 40,500 Monthly Searches | 74,000 Monthly Searches |
| Calories | 575-600/Bottle | 600/Bottle |
| ABV % | 6-12.5% | 12.5-14% |
Pairing Food With Riesling & Chardonnay
Riesling food pairing: Because of its high acidity, it pairs greatly with spicy food of Mexican and Asian (Indian, Thai, Chinese) cuisines.
Chardonnay pairs well with Mediterranean food (Italian, Spanish, Greek), with pasta and paella, and seafood. During the warm season, it is a great pair of grilled meat and burgers. It can be a good combination with desserts as well.
