(Wine-Searcher) - What do German winemakers think of Alsatian Riesling and vice-versa? Tom Hyland finds out.

When it comes to Riesling – "the greatest grape" as some in the industry have labeled it – the spiritual home for this variety resides in two lands: Germany and Alsace.

Given that Alsace was once part of Germany, it's not surprising that the wines share some basic similarities, but the differences – and there are many – are what make these offerings so distinctive and memorable.

Of course, there are regional variations within Germany and Alsace; Riesling from the Mosel has a completely different character than one from the Rheingau or Pfalz while, in Alsace, a Riesling blended from several sites is vastly diverse from a Grand Cru offering. But in general, there are some important dissimilarities between German and Alsatian Riesling; factors include climate, terroir, winemaking decisions and stylistic philosophy.

Let's hear from some of the producers themselves on this topic; what are the major contrasts between German and Alsatian Riesling?