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Find the differences that matter to your glass. Compare flavor, structure, alcohol, and how each bottle was made.
The short version
Where they differ
Flavor profile
- Bottle 1Lime, Citrus blossom, Mandarin
- Bottle 2Green apple, Pear, Mineral
Structure, side by side
From our tastings. Each mark shows an assessed level, with the same scale for every bottle.
Sweetness
1GiesenOff-dry
2SchmitgesOff-dry
Body
1GiesenLight body
2SchmitgesLight body
Acidity
1GiesenNot assessed
2SchmitgesBright acidity
| Field |
2 Schmitges |
|
|---|---|---|
| Taste | ||
| Score Differs | 87/100 |
86/100 |
| Verdict | Giesen makes full-strength New Zealand Riesling first, removes the alcohol with spinning cone technology, and keeps the lime-and-mandarin varietal core intact. | A refreshing, off-dry Riesling with crisp acidity, recognizable varietal character, and a persistent, mouthwatering finish. |
| Flavor Differs | Lime, Citrus blossom, Mandarin | Green apple, Pear, Mineral |
| Acidity Differs | — | Bright acidity |
| Likeness | Unmistakably Riesling before it is a lighter wine. Lime, citrus blossom, and mandarin stay bright over an off-dry frame. The citric close is fresh, and shorter than a bottle that still has its alcohol. | Convincingly Riesling-like, particularly in its green fruit aromatics, off-dry profile, and pronounced acidity. The interplay between sweetness and sharpness feels characteristic of the variety, while the persistent, mouthwatering finish helps establish a credible wine experience. Slight effervescence introduces a subtle departure from the texture of a conventional still Riesling, but also contributes freshness and lift. |
| Product facts | ||
| Origin | Marlborough and Waipara, New Zealand | Mosel (Middle Mosel, Erden), Germany |
| Price Differs | Under $20 | $20–$29 |
| Bottle size | 750 ml bottle | 750 ml |
| Evidence | ||
| Verification Differs | Producer documented | Bottle verified |
| Sources | 7 sources | 12 sources |
| Last verified | 2026-10-10 | 2026-10-23 |