Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Kerner wine, and how is it different from Riesling?
A: Kerner is an aromatic white grape originally bred in Germany from Riesling and Trollinger. In the glass, it can feel Riesling-like for acidity and freshness, but it often leans a bit rounder and more tropical. Think apple, pear, citrus, and sometimes peachy stone fruit.
Q: Is Kerner dry or sweet?
A: Kerner can be made in a dry to off-dry style, so it depends on the producer. A quick clue is the flavour balance, dry versions feel crisp and zesty, off-dry versions taste fruitier and slightly softer. If you are sweetness-sensitive, look for notes like “crisp” and “bright,” and serve it well chilled.
Q: What does Kerner taste like in Canadian versions?
A: Canadian Kerner typically shows clean orchard fruit like apple and pear, plus citrus and a hint of tropical fruit. It is medium to fuller-bodied for a white, with a firm, refreshing backbone from acidity. If you usually like Pinot Gris or Riesling, Kerner is an easy next step.
Q: What food pairs best with Kerner?
A: Kerner is great with lighter mains and anything that likes a squeeze of lemon, like white fish, grilled chicken, and quiche. It also works nicely with sushi, scallops, or a simple roast chicken dinner. Serve it chilled, and it will feel even more focused and refreshing.
Q: Is Kerner a “hybrid” grape, and does that mean it tastes different?
A: Kerner is sometimes grouped with hybrids in casual conversation, but it is actually a cross created from two Vitis vinifera parents, Riesling and Trollinger. “Hybrid” does not automatically mean weird or sweet, it mainly speaks to how the grape was bred and how it grows. What matters in your glass is the style, Kerner is typically aromatic, structured, and very food-friendly.
