Traditionally, it’s been one of the lesser known white varieties; the poor cousin to sauvignon blanc and chardonnay. In recent years though, riesling has enjoyed something of a revival.

Originating in Germany’s Rhine region, riesling flourishes in slightly cooler terroirs, producing crisp white wine with floral, citrusy aromas. An extremely versatile variety, Riesling can be paired with all manner of dishes. Dry style rieslings meld beautifully with everything from smoked chicken, sushi and salmon to oysters, antipasti, hummus and olives. Off-dry Rieslings make excellent pairings with spicy foods such as Thai prawns, chorizo or even herring and rollmops. The sweeter Rieslings are perfect for cutting through ultra-rich foods such as pates and terrines, duck and roast pork, and are a perfect foil for curries. Rieslings also make fine dessert wines to pair with fruit tarts, cheeses, pecan nut pie and even tangy lemon tart.

This year, for the first time, on Saturday 11 February 2012, Hartenberg Wine Estate will be hosting the Riesling Rocks festival.

Carl Schultz, celebrated Hartenberg winemaker and one of South Africa’s finest Riesling producers, has invited cellars to showcase their Rieslings at this food and wine extravaganza.

Besides Hartenberg’s own riesling, which clinched Gold medals at both the Five Nations Challenge in Australia and the Veritas Wine Awards this year, there will also be rieslings from Howard Booysen, Jordan, De Wetshof, Klein Constantia, Paul Cluver, Thelema and Groote Post. Some of the Cape’s best purveyors of fine deli food will be providing delicious treats to enjoy with the wines, whilst local musicians will set a festive tone.

What: Riesling Rocks at Hartenberg
When: Saturday 11 February 2012 from 12 noon until 5pm.
Where: Hartenberg Estate, on the Bottelary Road off the R304 to Stellenbosch.
Cost: R120 per person (includes wine glass)
Book: directly from Hartenberg Estate or online at www.webtickets.co.za.
Contact: 021 865 2541, email info@hartenbergestate.com or visit www.hartenbergestate.com.

Photograph: Alison Parks-Whitfield