March 13 marks International Riesling Day, a celebration of one of the world’s most respected white wine grapes. To honor the occasion, St. Julian Winery & Distillery highlights its Braganini Reserve Mountain Road Riesling. This wine continues to earn top recognition in prestigious wine competitions.
Riesling thrives in cool-climate regions, especially those influenced by large bodies of water. At St. Julian’s Mountain Road Estate Vineyard, conditions align perfectly for this varietal. The vineyard sits in the heart of the Lake Michigan Shore AVA, just five miles from Lake Michigan. Positioned high on a hillside, the site benefits from ideal slope, elevation, and natural air movement.
Throughout the growing season, warm days and cool nights work together to develop balanced sugars and vibrant acidity. These conditions support the fresh, expressive style that defines quality Riesling. Vineyard crews hand-pick the grapes, and the winemaking team selects only the best fruit for estate wines.
Recently, St. Julian’s 2020 Braganini Reserve Mountain Road Riesling earned significant national recognition. The wine won Best of Class and claimed the top honor in the Riesling Challenge at the East Meets West Wine Challenge. In addition, it received Double Gold medals at both the Tasters Guild Competition and the Harvest Challenge. The wine also earned a Gold medal at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
“Our Mountain Road Estate Vineyard consistently produces outstanding fruit,” says Sarah Braganini, owner and manager of the vineyard. “Our winemaking team continues to demonstrate their skill and dedication. We feel honored to receive awards that celebrate this exceptional wine.”
In the glass, the Riesling delivers pronounced flavors of apple, pear, peach, lime, and floral blossom. Bright acidity keeps the wine refreshing and balanced. A small amount of residual sugar, measured at 1.5 percent, enhances the aromatics while preserving elegance and freshness.
Because of its acidity and fruit-forward profile, Riesling pairs well with a wide range of foods. It complements spicy dishes such as Asian stir fry, chicken enchiladas, curries, and buffalo chicken wings. At the same time, the acidity cuts through richer fare like white chicken chili, creamy pasta dishes, and pot pies. As a result, this Riesling shines in every season.
To purchase a bottle of Braganini Reserve Mountain Road Riesling, visit any of St. Julian’s six tasting rooms or shop online.
