A Guide To Old And Rare Rieslings: Are Aged Bottles Really That Good?

If you’ve ever spotted a bottle of Riesling with a vintage from the early 2000s (or earlier) and wondered if it’s still worth a pour, you’re not alone. Riesling fans and curious wine lovers alike often find themselves eyeing those

older bottles with equal parts excitement and apprehension. Will that 20-year-old bottle sing with new layers of flavour, or has it quietly gone over the hill? Let’s get into the fascinating world of aged Rieslings and peel back

the cork on what really happens when you let this classic varietal rest for a decade or two.

Why Riesling Ages So Well

Plenty of white wines are best enjoyed within a few years of release, but Riesling is a glorious exception. Thanks to its vibrant acidity and delicate balance of sugar and fruit, Riesling has an uncanny ability to evolve, finding

new depths as it matures. Over time, those mouth-watering citrus, apple and floral notes may give way to honey, marmalade, dried herbs and, sometimes, a signature whiff of “petrol” (don’t be scared, fans swear this is one

of Riesling’s quirks).

If you’ve ever wondered why some of the world’s most famous wines come from regions with challenging climates, look no further than Riesling’s home turf in Germany, Austria and, closer to home, the Canberra District.

The cool climate creates wines with energy and structure, setting them up for notable longevity.

Popping the Question: Is a 20-Year-Old Riesling Still Good?

The short answer is: it absolutely can be. Well-made Rieslings from good vintages, stored correctly, are known to age gracefully for 20 years—or even longer. The key is provenance and storage. Was this bottle kept cool,

out of sunlight, and with the cork intact? If so, you’re in luck.

With proper cellaring, a two-decade-old Riesling can deliver a completely different experience than its youthful counterpart. Younger Rieslings are all about zest and freshness, but aged versions develop layers of honey,

toast, dried apricot and that unique savoury-mineral core. Acidity softens but keeps everything lively. These wines are less about fruit and more about complexity and depth.

Not every Riesling is destined for a long nap, though. Entry-level or super-budget bottles might fall flat after too long, so it’s wise to check in with your local wine expert or somm if you’re not sure what’s sitting in your stash.

How Long Can You Keep Unopened Riesling?

If you’re lucky enough to find a few bottles of Riesling with promising origins, the next question is how long you should resist temptation. Generally, quality Rieslings can age well for 5 to 30 years, with premium examples

from renowned producers and regions topping the scale. Factors like sugar content and acidity determine just how long a particular wine will last—sweeter styles often go the distance, while drier modern expressions can

also hold but might be best between 5 and 15 years.

Love Canberra bottles? Locally crafted Rieslings often reward medium-term cellaring. Chat with a team member or check out the vendor’s tasting notes for a hint about the wine’s optimal drinking window.

How To Tell If Your Riesling Has Gone Bad

You’ve found a dusty treasure, wiped off the cobwebs, and now it’s time to make the call: drink or ditch? Here’s how to tell if your bottle’s still fit for glory.

Colour: Aged Riesling takes on deeper gold hues, but if it looks like burnt caramel or brown tea, caution is needed.

Smell: Lovely old Riesling may offer petrol, honey, even toast or spice. But if all you get is damp cardboard or sharp vinegar, it’s past its prime.

Taste: Mature Riesling should feel balanced and still lively—even with age. If it’s all acid, flat, or maderised (cooked, stale notes), it’s done.

Trust your senses. If you’d serve it to a friend and not an enemy, it’s good to go.

So, Can You Drink a 10-Year-Old Riesling?

Definitely! For many collectors and wine lovers, the 8 to 15-year range is Riesling in its prime. Flavours become more textured and nuanced, sugars recede, and the complexities of bottle age shine through. Whether you’re

tasting a crisp, steely Canberra expression or a luscious German Spätlese, this is when the magic starts to happen. Just make sure your bottle’s been stored properly.

If you’re new to exploring age in wines, or even just want to try a range of vintages, a good start is visiting a venue where older Rieslings are always open and ready to pour by the glass. The right riesling bar canberra will

often curate vertical tastings and showcase the remarkable journey of this grape—so you’re not left second-guessing what’s happening in that bottle.

Storage Matters: Keeping Riesling at Its Best

If you’re keen on building your own stash of age-worthy Rieslings, a bit of planning pays off. Store bottles on their side (if under cork, screwcap doesn’t matter), away from direct light, at a cool and steady temperature (ideally 12-15°C). Avoid spots with

fluctuating heat or vibration, as these can push a wine over the edge faster than you’d hope. A wine fridge is brilliant, but even the back of a cool pantry or wardrobe can work in a pinch.

And if all this sounds like too much, remember you can always trust the cellar at your local canberra riesling specialist to handle the hard work for you.

How To Taste Older Rieslings Like a Pro

Tasting an old bottle is a moment worth savouring. Stand the wine upright for a day or two to let any sediment settle. Open gently, pour a small taste first, and give it a little swirl. Notice how the aromas unfold—sometimes

they need a minute to emerge after years in the bottle. Try small sips and let the flavours build. Pair with food that sits in the medium-flavour camp: think oysters, mild cheeses, or light pasta.

Not sure what style might suit you? A thoughtful team at a dedicated wine bar or canberra wine bar can guide you through the selection, always ready to share a favourite or recommend a food pairing that brings the best

out in your glass.

In Summary

Aged Riesling is one of the great joys of wine, offering complexity and flavour with a story to tell. Whether you’re dusting off a family heirloom or planning a long, lazy dinner, these bottles often shine brightest when shared

in good company. If you’re ever unsure about what’s in your cellar, or just want to explore the differences between young and old, there’s no better place than a Riesling-focused venue. At Rizla, we’re passionate about

making old wines feel right at home—so you can taste, learn, and fall in love with every sip.